The Ballad of Jesse James states that, "Jesse James was a lad that killed many a man," but can anyone quantify "many"?
I would love some sources that I can read online... if they're out there (I've done a decent amount of research and can't find anything).
Any other myths about Jesse James and/or other "outlaws" in the American West that have been proven wrong? Again, if you have anything, I would love to read online sources.
Thanks.
I cannot answer the Jesse James bit, but for your second one about other outlaws, the myth about Billy the Kid killing 21 men for his 21 years of life has been proven to be false. He is verified as killing 4. 2 out of self defense. 2 in the famous jail break. Now, he took part in others as well, the Sheriff Brady Murder, and 4 others (all part of the Lincoln County War), so that brings it to 9 that he either killed himself or took part in. I would love to hear from a Jesse James expert on this. Also, I am at work but I can give you a list of some good reads on Billy the Kid/Lincoln County War if you like.