Stories of the American West have been a source of excitement and entertainment for more than 100 years. Novels, movies, and television shows have all drawn upon the Wild West for inspiration. But was the Wild West truly that wild? Were there gun-toting outlaws hiding behind every corner? Were white settlers and Native American tribes constantly at war? This book looks at some of the myths, legends, and tall tales surrounding the Wild West and attempts to separate fact from fantasy. Black-and-white and full-color photographs, fact boxes, and sidebars support the age-appropriate text and provide additional information.