Jesse James by T. J. Stiles tells the story of the famous American outlaw with a unique perspective. Drawing on a wealth of original sources, Stiles challenges popular misconceptions of Jesse James and presents him in a new light.
The biography begins with a look into James’ early life. Born in 1847 during the tumultuous Missouri-Kansas border wars, James grew up in the midst of violence, poverty, and chaos. His father, Robert, was an itinerant Baptist minister and an ardent Confederate sympathizer; his mother, Zerelda, was a fiercely independent woman whose first husband was a prominent guerrilla leader. Growing up, Jesse had a relatively normal childhood, but he quickly came to accept the violent actions of his family members as a legitimate response to strife, bigotry, and injustice.
James’ outlaw career began after the Civil War, when he and his brother Frank formed the James-Younger gang. Their crimes often highlighted socioeconomic class differences, as the gang targeted banks and trains owned by powerful Northern industrialists and railroads. They were hunted by formidable Pinkerton detectives and eventually declared public enemies.
Stiles extensively examines James’ complicated dual identity: part Robin Hood and part villain. He argues that James was an effective leader who was able to inspire loyalty in his gang members, yet also presents evidence of his violent, vengeful behavior. Stiles also explores the myth-making that occurred during and after James’ lifetime, painting him as an American legend and folk hero.
The book also dives into James’ last years, ultimately showing how James was ultimately betrayed by long-time friends and associates and shot to death by a former gang member in 1882. Stiles provides life lessons from the iconic outlaw's story, including how a desire for glory and retribution can ultimately lead to disaster and pain.
Jesse James by T. J. Stiles is an illuminating biography that looks beyond the myths to provide a new perspective on the life of the famous outlaw. Filled with in-depth research, Stiles makes clear that James was no mere bandit, but a complex man whose life story is a reflection of the turbulent times he lived in.
