Jesse James's rise as a notorious outlaw was concurrent with the upheaval the West experienced before, during, and after the American Civil War. In fact, Jesse and his brother Frank became heroes to many who viewed them as Confederates battling the Union more than murderers and thieves. This thought-provoking volume tells the story of Jesse, from childhood to violent death, as well as relates valuable information about events in the United States that cultivated outlaws like the James brothers, including Bleeding Kansas and Reconstruction. The infamous man comes to life through photographs, illustrations, and an exciting narrative.