That total did not include the entire state, as some counties did not file reports a later accounting increased the total to 1,035. In 1869 a study by the Committee of Lawlessness and Violence in Texas reported that 939 murders had been committed in the previous few years. Texas after the war, overrun by carpetbaggers, thieves and bloody opportunists, was one of the most dangerous places in the United States. But Edmund Davis, the widely unpopular Republican governor, believed that these seasoned men could be effectively directed by his administration, and could be absorbed into the Unionist troops commissioned in patrolling the vast distances within the state. The federal government, nervous about experienced, armed forces within the Republic - many of whom had been passionate secessionists, active Confederate combatants and pro-slavery - sought to permanently eradicate the Rangers, allowing federal troops to protect the state’s borders.

So even many Texans might be unaware that there was a short period when the Rangers were disbanded before being reconstituted by the Reconstruction legislature of Texas. The Rangers have grown into legends far afield of Texas, their bravery and fortitude exemplary, their mythical prowess with a gun recounted in popular books and songs. Traditionally, the first responders to these attacks were the Texas Rangers.

Continuing raids by the Comanche and Apache, border skirmishes with Mexico over land, cattle and horses, and homegrown villains kept the early settlers of the Republic on constant alert. Certainly Texas in the “good ole days” experienced its share of bloody conflicts. Richardson, that if a person wanted to obtain distinction in Texas, all he had to do was kill someone. A Texan once bragged to the 19th century journalist, Albert D.

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