Teaching Students About Bass Reeves
When discussing historical figures of the Wild West, names like Wyatt Earp, Billy the Kid, and Jesse James may come to mind. However, there is one highly notable figure who has often been overlooked in history – Bass Reeves. As one of the first African American Deputy U.S. Marshals, Bass Reeves contributed significantly to the establishment of law and order during a tumultuous time in American history. This article explores the life and legacy of Bass Reeves and suggests ways educators can teach students about this inspiring yet often-overlooked hero.
Who was Bass Reeves?
Born into slavery in 1838 in Crawford County, Arkansas, Bass Reeves became a runaway during the Civil War. He found sanctuary among the Native Americans in what is now Oklahoma, where he honed his skills as an expert tracker and marksmanship. After the Civil War ended and slavery was abolished, he moved back to Arkansas and began his career as a farmer.
In 1875, Reeves was appointed as a Deputy U.S. Marshal by Marshal James Fagan with the specific task of policing the Indian Territory (which consisted of parts of present-day Oklahoma). Over his 32-year career as a lawman, Bass Reeves arrested over 3,000 criminals and brought them to justice – more than any other law enforcement officer during that era – including notorious outlaws like Belle Starr.
Teaching Strategies for Introducing Bass Reeves to Students
1. Start with storytelling: Begin by discussing Bass Reeves’s life story in class. Use age-appropriate books or articles to provide background information on his journey from an enslaved person to becoming a respected lawman.
2. Utilize primary documents: Make use of primary sources such as newspapers and court documents to highlight his accomplishments throughout his career as a Deputy U.S. Marshal.
3. Compare and contrast: Have students compare Bass Reeves’s story to other well-known figures from the Wild West era. This can help students understand how his life and legacy fit into the broader historical narrative.
4. Analyze his impact on history: Discuss the significance of Bass Reeves as one of the first African American law enforcement officers and his role in maintaining law and order in a tumultuous time in American history.
5. Engage students with multimedia: Show documentaries or clips from films about Reeves’s life, such as “The Legend of Bass Reeves” documentary and “Hell on the Border.”
6. Plan related activities: Organize field trips to museums with exhibits related to Bass Reeves or the Old West, or invite guest speakers knowledgeable about this topic to come and speak to your class.
7. Encourage further research: Provide resources for students who want to learn more about Bass Reeves or any other noteworthy historical characters from a variety of backgrounds, promoting cultural understanding and diversity.