History, Wyatt Earp, Outlaws, Tombstone, Arizona, 1800-1899, Frontier, Pioneer, American Biography, American Famous Trials 

"The gunfight at the O.K. Corral occupies a unique place in American history. Although the event itself lasted less than a minute, it became the basis for countless stories about the Wild West. At the time of the gunfight, however, Wyatt Earp was not universally acclaimed as a hero. Among the people who knew him best in Tombstone, Arizona, many considered him a renegade and murderer." "This book tells the story of the prosecution of Wyatt Earp, his brothers, and Doc Holliday following the famous gunfight. To the prosecutors, the Earps and Holliday were wanton killers. According to the defense, the Earps were steadfast heroes - willing to risk their lives on the streets of Tombstone for the sake of order." "The case against the Earps, with its dueling narratives of brutality and justification, played out themes of betrayal, revenge, and even adultery. Attorney Thomas Fitch, one of the era's finest advocates, ultimately managed - against considerable odds - to save Wyatt Earp from the gallows. But the case could easily have ended in a conviction, and Earp would have been hanged or imprisoned, not celebrated as an American icon."--Jacket. 

Content:

Slap leather -- From Dodge City to Tombstone -- Prelude to a gunfight -- Thirty shots in thirty seconds -- Invitation to an inquest -- Judge Spicer's court -- "I don't want to fight" -- "I think we can hang them" -- "In defense of my own life -- "I want your guns" -- Decision -- Aftermath. 

Includes bibliographical references (pages 233-243) and index.