Wyatt Earp Was A Gun Grabber

Published on October 28, 2016
Duration: 9:55

This video explores the historical context of gun control in Tombstone, Arizona, focusing on City Ordinance No. 9 enacted in 1881. It details how this ordinance, which prohibited the carry or concealment of firearms within city limits, was selectively enforced, contributing to the feud between the 'Cowboy' and 'Ear' factions. The narrative highlights the subjective application of the law, contrasting the treatment of individuals like Doc Holliday with that of the 'Cowboys', ultimately leading to the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

Quick Summary

Tombstone's 1881 City Ordinance No. 9 prohibited the carry or concealment of firearms within city limits. Its enforcement was highly subjective, often favoring allies like Doc Holliday while strictly policing groups like the 'Cowboy' faction, exacerbating tensions and contributing to historical conflicts in the Old West town.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to Tombstone Gun Control
  2. 00:21Tombstone's Rural Context
  3. 01:32Political Divide: Ranchers vs. Businessmen
  4. 01:54The 'Cowboy' Faction
  5. 02:43Wyatt Earp's Arrival and Role
  6. 03:52Ordinance No. 9 Enacted
  7. 04:45Subjective Enforcement of Laws
  8. 05:07Doc Holliday's Incident and Treatment
  9. 06:00Cowboys as Troublemakers
  10. 06:35Escalating Feud and Bad Blood
  11. 06:56Events Leading to the Gunfight
  12. 09:00Legacy of Tombstone's Gun Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Tombstone's City Ordinance No. 9?

Enacted in 1881, Tombstone's City Ordinance No. 9 prohibited the carry or concealment of firearms and any deadly weapon within the city limits. This law significantly impacted the daily lives and safety of those entering the town, particularly the rural ranching community.

How was Tombstone's gun control law enforced?

The enforcement of Ordinance No. 9 was notably subjective. Lawmen often applied the ordinance based on personal relationships and affiliations, leading to a double standard where some individuals, like Doc Holliday, were allowed to carry weapons while others, particularly the 'Cowboy' faction, were strictly policed.

What was the 'Cowboy' faction in Tombstone?

In 19th-century Tombstone, the term 'Cowboy' was often a derogatory slur for individuals considered rustlers and troublemakers, primarily from the rural ranching community. Despite their reputation, they were essential to the town's economy, and their interactions with law enforcement, particularly regarding gun laws, fueled significant conflict.

Did Wyatt Earp support gun control in Tombstone?

Wyatt Earp, serving as an assistant deputy sheriff in Tombstone, was instrumental in the implementation and enforcement of City Ordinance No. 9, which restricted firearm carry. His approach to law enforcement, including the selective application of this ordinance, contributed to the tensions that led to the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

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