Most Famous Vigilantes by Gary C. King
edited by Kevin P. Allen A vigilante is a person who takes the law into his or her own hands to mete out punishment, typically death, to one who is believed to be a lawbreaker. Vigilantes were particularly common in the Old West, also known as the Wild West, where law often didn't exist. Although not accepted by official law enforcement, vigilantes and their groups nonetheless crept into areas where those upholding the law were deemed as weak or where corruption was prevalent. Many times vigilantes are viewed as heroes and garner citizen support. Although modern culture has glamorized vigilantes with fictional heroes, such as the Paul Kersey role made popular by actor Charles Bronson, vigilante cop "Dirty Harry" Callahan portrayed by Clint Eastwood, or Dexter, America's favorite serial killer, played by actor Michael C. Hall, there are fewer vigilantes today than those that existed in the Old West. Following are a few from the past, as well as some from modern times, who've managed to make names for themselves. Photo: iStockphoto |
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