Even More Brave than We Imagined
Bass in the 19th Century
Image: “Bass Reeves, Lawman” by artist Jack Sorenson
The 1860s, a period marked by significant racial tension and prejudice, particularly in the American West, presented a challenging backdrop for the life of one of the first Black American deputy U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi, Bass Reeves. During this era, the United States was deeply divided over issues of race, especially with the Civil War and the subsequent Reconstruction era. The American West, a region known for its lawlessness and rough justice, was no exception to these tensions.
For Bass Reeves, one of the first African American deputy U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi, operating in this environment was fraught with additional challenges and dangers. Not only did he have to contend with the usual risks associated with tracking down and apprehending outlaws, but he also had to navigate a society rife with racism and discrimination.
Being a Black man in a position of authority was extraordinary and potentially provocative during a time when African Americans were fighting for basic rights and recognition.
In this era, the idea of a Black man in a position of authority was not only rare but could also provoke strong resentment, especially among white outlaws
Reeves operated in a predominantly white, often lawless society where African Americans were generally viewed as inferior and often denied basic rights. His position as a law enforcement officer in such a society was both rare and challenging.
Some white criminals objected to being arrested by a Black marshal. This resistance stemmed from the racist belief that African Americans should not hold positions of authority, especially over whites.
Reeves had to contend with this hostility in addition to the usual dangers of apprehending criminals.
As an African American lawman, Reeves likely faced skepticism and lack of respect from certain members of the public and possibly from other law enforcement officers. His achievements and competence would have had to overcome the prevailing stereotypes and low expectations set by a racially biased society.
Image: Bass Reeves as a young man.
Being a Black marshal in a racially tense and often violent environment put Reeves at a higher risk of personal harm, not just from the outlaws he pursued but also from members of the general public who harbored racist attitudes.
The legal and social frameworks of the time were skewed against African Americans. This meant that Reeves had to perform his duties in an environment where the legal system and societal norms were not always supportive or fair to people of his race.
Despite these immense challenges, Bass Reeves built a reputation as an effective, fair, and brave lawman. His ability to overcome these prejudices and successfully carry out his duties is a significant part of his legacy, highlighting his remarkable character and the important role he played in the history of law enforcement in the United States.
Image: Judge Parker’s gallows at Fort Smith National Historic Site
The racial prejudice of the time exemplify the heroism and exceptional skill of Bass Reeves. Overcoming these societal barriers reveals just how courageous and formidable this man truly was.
Next time: in Pt. 2, the fool who didn’t heed Bass Reeves.
Resources
https://www.texasmonthly.com/being-texan/the-resurrection-of-bass-reeves/
https://www.legendsofamerica.com/bob-dozier-oklahoma-outlaw/
https://thetombstonenews.com/bass-reeves-he-set-a-timeless-example-p477-84.htm
Books
Burton, Art T. Black Gun, Silver Star: The Life and Legend of Frontier Marshal Bass Reeves*. University of Nebraska Press.
Burton, Art T. *Black, Red and Deadly: Black and Indian Gunfighters of the Indian Territory, 1875–1907*. Austin, TX: Eakin Press, 1991.
Paulsen, Gary. *The Legend of Bass Reeves: Being the True and Fictional Account of the Most Valiant Marshal in the West*. New York: Wendy Lamb Books, 2006.
Thompson, Sydney. *Follow the Angels, Follow the Doves*. The Bass Reeves Trilogy, Book One. Bison Books, March 2020.
Thompson, Sydney. *Hell on the Border*. The Bass Reeves Trilogy, Book Two. Bison Books, April 2021.
Thompson, Sydney. *The Forsaken and the Dead*. The Bass Reeves Trilogy, Book Three. Bison Books, October 2023.
Thank you so much for sharing Bass Reeves’ story and giving insight on life must’ve been during his time. I appreciate this important work.
As usual, thank you for this!