How old was Billy the Kid when he started? This question often sparks intrigue and curiosity among history enthusiasts. Billy the Kid, also known as William H. Bonney, was a notorious American outlaw who lived a short but tumultuous life. Born on November 23, 1859, in New Mexico Territory, Billy the Kid’s early life was marked by hardship and violence, which ultimately led him to start his criminal career at a remarkably young age.
Billy the Kid’s involvement in crime began when he was just a teenager. After the death of his mother, he moved to Lincoln County, New Mexico, where he was introduced to the world of crime. At the age of 14, Billy started working as a cattle ranch hand, and it was during this time that he first encountered the violence that would define his life. In 1876, Billy’s uncle, John Tunstall, was killed in a gunfight, which ignited the Lincoln County War. Billy, who was just 17 at the time, joined the war on the side of the cowboys against the wealthy cattle barons.
As the conflict escalated, Billy the Kid became increasingly involved in the violence. He was known for his swift and ruthless shooting skills, which earned him the nickname “The Kid.” His criminal activities included robbing banks, holding up stagecoaches, and killing rivals. Despite his young age, Billy’s reputation as a formidable gunman spread quickly, and he became a symbol of lawlessness in the American West.
So, how old was Billy the Kid when he started? The answer is that he began his criminal career at the tender age of 17. His involvement in the Lincoln County War and his subsequent escapades as an outlaw marked the beginning of a violent and short-lived life. Billy the Kid’s legend has captivated generations, and his story continues to be a subject of fascination and debate among historians and enthusiasts alike.
