This compelling analysis of the robberies and murders that plagued the mining frontier during the 1850s and 1860s features the careers of twenty-one hardened criminals. In this first overall study of the desperado mystique that corrupted many energetic, capable young men on the frontier, R.E. Mather and F.E. Boswell disclose the values as well as the reckless, violent behavior of the dashing outlaws, whose careers often ended on a wilderness gallows. Their portrayal of the mystique of the desperado will appeal to readers interested in true crime and the Old West.