The Western peace officer

the long version

The role of the lawman in the development of the American West. The author examines the legends that surround many of the early western peace officers and concludes that they were no better or worse than the members of the communities that they served. The book describes the activities of a number of law enforcement agencies such as the Texas Rangers, the Pinkertons, and private police forces associated with banks, railroads, and cattlemen's associations. Numerous famous law enforcement figures are discussed, including James Butler Hickok, Wyatt Earp, and Dallas Stoudenmire.