Jim Beckwourth Leads Out of Fear

Jim Beckwourth is best known for his mountain man exploits, but he was also an author, a saloon keeper, a gambler, a rancher and more.  But he probably could have done without one credit.

Beckwourth was hired as a guide and interpreter for Colorado militia forces and was involved in the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864.  Just what his involvement entailed is unknown.  But in testimony before a congressional inquiry on the incident, Beckwourth claimed he’d been forced to guide the troops, that he feared for his life if he didn’t go along.