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Unveiling the Montana Vigilantes: A History of Power, Race, and Tourism

Gabriel Hayes

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Published in Race And The Wild West: Sarah Bickford The Montana Vigilantes And The Tourism Of Decline 1870 1930 (Race And Culture In The American West 17)

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In her meticulously researched book, "Sarah Bickford: The Montana Vigilantes and the Tourism of Decline, 1870-1930," Sarah Bickford unveils a captivating chapter in Montana's history. This comprehensive work delves into the intricate interplay between power, race, and the rise of tourism in the state during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Navigating the Labyrinth of Power

Bickford's narrative centers around the Montana Vigilantes, a group of vigilantes who emerged during the tumultuous gold rush era. As vigilantes, they took justice into their own hands, often operating outside the confines of the law. Through extensive archival research and firsthand accounts, Bickford traces the rise and fall of the Vigilantes, shedding light on their motivations, methods, and the impact they had on Montana's political and social landscape.

Race and the Wild West: Sarah Bickford the Montana Vigilantes and the Tourism of Decline 1870 1930 (Race and Culture in the American West 17)

Race and the Wild West: Sarah Bickford, the Montana Vigilantes, and the Tourism of Decline, 1870–1930 (Race and Culture in the American West Series Book 17)

by Beca Aberdeen

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7656 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	304 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Race and Identity in a Frontier Society

Race played a significant role in the story of the Montana Vigilantes. Bickford's analysis delves into the racial tensions that existed in the region, exploring how racial prejudice and discrimination shaped the Vigilantes' actions. She uncovers the ways in which race influenced who was targeted by the Vigilantes and the nature of their punishments. Bickford's work provides a nuanced understanding of the complex racial dynamics that were prevalent in Montana during this period.

A Group Of Montana Vigilantes Pose For A Photograph. Race And The Wild West: Sarah Bickford The Montana Vigilantes And The Tourism Of Decline 1870 1930 (Race And Culture In The American West 17)

Tourism and the Legacy of Vigilante Justice

Bickford's book also examines the rise of tourism in Montana and its impact on the perception of the Vigilantes. As tourists flocked to the state in the early 20th century, they brought with them a fascination with the Wild West and its legends. Bickford reveals how the legacy of the Vigilantes was repackaged and presented to tourists, shaping a romanticized view of their actions and the history of Montana.

A Window into a Forgotten Past

"Sarah Bickford: The Montana Vigilantes and the Tourism of Decline, 1870-1930" is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking account of a critical period in Montana's history. Bickford's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between power, race, and tourism in the American West.

This book is a valuable addition to the historical record, providing a fresh perspective on the Montana Vigilantes and their enduring impact on Montana's identity. Through Bickford's insightful analysis, readers gain a nuanced understanding of the ways in which power, race, and tourism have shaped the historical narrative of the American West.

Race and the Wild West: Sarah Bickford, the Montana Vigilantes, and the Tourism of Decline, 1870–1930 (Race and Culture in the American West Series Book 17)

by Beca Aberdeen

4.6 out of 5