Why Did Jesse James Become an Outlaw?

Jesse James, one of the most famous outlaws in American history, entered into a life of crime following a series of traumatic events during the American Civil War. His journey from being an ordinary citizen to a celebrated opresstor of the law was influenced by the brutalities of the conflict and the injustices faced by those who supported the Confederate cause.

Union Troops and Jayhawker Militias

The years leading up to Jesse James' involvement with the guerrillas were marked by intense violence and widespread suffering. Union Troops, along with their Jayhawker Militia allies, conducted a scorched-earth campaign against Confederate sympathizers in Missouri. Union Jayhawker Militias roamed freely, committing atrocities such as raping, robbing, burning, and torturing civilians in both homesteads and small towns.

This brutal campaign lasted for over a year, causing immense anguish and fear among the civilian population. The vicious acts committed by the Jayhawkers and other Union forces created an atmosphere of chaos and terror, driving many people to seek refuge and fight back.

Jesse James and the Death of His Father

It was against this backdrop of violence that the incident involving Jesse James' father played a pivotal role. His father, a pro-Union immigrant, was killed by a Union Jayhawker Militia. This tragic event was the final straw for Jesse James, who was deeply affected by this senseless act of violence. The death of his father, who was unarmed and simply wanted to live a peaceful life, left a lasting mark on Jesse James' psyche and fueled his resolve to take a stand.

Guerrillas and the Outlaw Label

Missouri Guerillas, although acting as Confederate militias, were not formally recognized as paid and billeted troops by the Confederate army. Consequently, they were often labeled as outlaws and treated as criminals rather than soldiers by those opposing them. This systemic labeling of the guerrillas contributed to the perception that those who fought with them also deserved to be seen as outcasts of society.

Despite the challenges, Jesse James distinguished himself by never owning a slave. He went a step further by allowing African Americans to fight alongside him against the Jayhawkers. This decision reflected Jesse James' stand for equality and his desire to protect those who had been victims of violence and discrimination.

Post-War-Life and the Role of Law Enforcement

Following the conclusion of the American Civil War, Jesse James faced a new set of challenges. Upon returning to his home, he witnessed firsthand the brutalities inflicted upon his family and other loyal Confederates by 'the law.' This enraged him and solidified his decision to take a stand against the system that he perceived as unjust and violent.

The simple answer to why Jesse James became an outlaw is that he fought in the American Civil War and returned home to a reality where his loved ones and supporters were targets of brutal violence by law enforcement. His actions, fueled by trauma and a desire for justice, led him to become a legendary figure in the annals of American outlaw history.