MUST SEE, MUST READ
THE REAL BILLY THE KID: WITH NEW LIGHT ON THE LINCOLN COUNTY WAR (1998, by Miguel Antonio Otero Jr.): Originally published in 1936 and written by the other New Mexico governor in Billy’s life, it contains its share of historical errors but also offers valuable insights and distinctly Hispano perspectives rarely found elsewhere. It features a unique series of recollections and opinions from a number of Billy’s contemporaries and contains the only published reminiscences of the long overlooked but important Lincoln County War figure Martín Chávez. This edition features an insightful introduction from John-Michael Rivera.
BOOKS
Merchants, Guns and Money: The Story of Lincoln County and Its Wars (1987, by John P. Wilson): This scholarly and dispassionate study details important events before, during and after the Lincoln County War. Covering the economic affairs, various political conflicts and many violent episodes of Lincoln, N.M., from its initial settlement up to its loss of the county seat in 1913, this is a trove of information that deserves wider publication.
Forgotten People: A Study of New Mexicans (1967, by George I. Sánchez,): An insightful examination of the lengthy hardships endured by the Hispano people of New Mexico in the wake of the Treaty of Guadalupe and subsequent American colonialism for which the largely illiterate and impoverished population (who became Billy’s people) were wholly unprepared and therefore often ripe for exploitation. A testament to a people’s resilience amid sweeping social and economic upheaval beyond their control on the harsh frontier and their journey into the 20th century.
(2020, by Richard W. Etulain): A herculean compilation and appraisal of a whopping number of books, articles, essays, manuscripts, newspaper articles, novels and films either centered on or related to Billy the Kid. Featuring the typical astuteness one expects from a former English professor who seldom holds back in offering his perspective or criticisms,
