History of Billy the Kid: The Lincoln County War

It is believed that the notorious outlaw Billy the Kid was actually a native from the East Coast. A popular theory is that Billy the Kid was born Henry McCarty in New York City in 1859. However, no real solid facts are known about Billy the Kid's early life, including his parents, family, birthdate, or birth place. Other than Billy the Kid, he was also known as William H. Bonney. The first mention of Billy the Kid's nickname was by a reporter for the Las Vegas Gazette in 1880.

In his early teens, Billy the Kid's family settled in Silver City, New Mexico. After Billy's mother died, he soon became involved in all sorts of illegal activities. He was a cattle rustler and horse thief. Billy the Kid was involved in more than a few gunfights. Billy was known for his quick temper and expert ability with a gun. Billy the Kid is rumored to have killed 21 men, but there is no proof of this.

By the 1870s, Billy the Kid was hanging around New Mexico. There were several land disputes going on in the United States territory at the time. Billy the Kid became involved in a dispute over land as well. Billy teamed up with John Tunstall in what would become known as the Lincoln County War. This war was a struggle for power between cattle ranchers and landowners.

The Lincoln County War was the result of several feuds amongst many different parties. But the most violent and famous feud was between Englishman John Tunstall and Irishman James Dolan. Both men wanted power and political control of Lincoln County. Dolan had the backing of the local sheriff and Billy the Kid's gang, which was led by Jesse Evans.

Billy the Kid started not getting along with members of his own gang, especially the leader Jesse Evans. Billy eventually switched sides after being offered a job by Tunstall. Billy the Kid was on good terms with members of the community and friends with Tunstall's employees. Billy the Kid started using the new name, William H. Bonney, and hoped for a new beginning as well.