21.
Billy the Kid, one of the most notorious outlaws of the American Old West, was killed at the young age of 21 years old. Born as Henry McCarty, he was also known by the aliases William H. Bonney and simply “Billy the Kid.” His exact birthdate is not definitively known, but most historians agree it was around November 23, 1859. He was shot and killed by Sheriff Pat Garrett on the night of July 14, 1881, in Fort Sumner, New Mexico.
Billy the Kid’s life was marked by a series of criminal activities, particularly in the New Mexico Territory. He was involved in the Lincoln County War, a violent conflict between rival merchant factions, which turned into a larger political and legal feud. Billy quickly gained a reputation as a fearless and deadly gunman. It is said he killed at least eight men, though some reports exaggerate the number.
Despite his criminal record, Billy the Kid was viewed by some as a folk hero, partly due to his charm and youth. His ability to escape from custody, especially his bold breakout from the Lincoln County jail in April 1881, during which he killed two deputies, only added to his legend. His brief life and dramatic end at the hands of Sheriff Garrett helped cement his place in American folklore.
Garrett later published a book about his pursuit and killing of the outlaw, which played a significant role in shaping the mythos around Billy the Kid. Today, he remains one of the most iconic figures of the Wild West.
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