In many regards, Tombstone, Arizona became the epitome of the Wild West. On the periphery of the town, the United States and Mexican armies were battling local Apache tribes. Tensions in Tombstone itself were heading to a boiling point as outlaws and lawmen were vying for power in the town.
Tombstone was on the rise—having been founded in 1877 and quickly flourishing. In a handful of years there was a bowling alley, saloon, expensive top-tier hotel, high and low-brow entertainment, and even a wine shop.
The thriving town attracted people from all over to reap the quick-rich lifestyle. Heightened activity and money the bustling area meant more crime.
One group was especially getting noticed for their rough ways: The Cochise County Cowboys. They worked primarily along the U.S.-Mexican border, stealing cattle and wares. Rumor had it they were even committing murders. The town began to get the reputation of being dangerous. Businesses were inclined to keep the peace to continue to profit off the thousands of folks in town, rather than get on the wrong side of an outlaw.
Mayor John Clum was highly interested in keeping order, and relied on his friends, like lawmen Wyatt Earp and his brother, along with Doc Holliday. Things came to a head in October of 1881 with the now-famous shoot-out at O.K. Corral.
