Why Jesse James Chose to Rob Banks over other Crimes

Jesse James was a notorious American outlaw known for his many bank and train robberies in the late 1800s. He has been the subject of many books, movies, and television shows, but one question remains: why did Jesse James choose to rob banks over other crimes? In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons behind this infamous outlaw’s criminal behavior.

The thrill of danger

One theory behind Jesse James’ choice to rob banks is the thrill of danger. Banks were heavily guarded and considered to be well-protected, making them a high-risk target for any criminal. For someone like Jesse James, who was known for his bravery and recklessness, the challenge of robbing a bank was too irresistible to pass up. The risk of getting caught only added to the thrill.

Additionally, robbing banks provided an adrenaline rush that other crimes may not have. The planning, execution, and escape all required a high level of precision and quick thinking, which could be seen as a game to someone like Jesse James.

Revenge against the government

Another possible reason for Jesse James’ focus on robbing banks may stem from his deep-rooted hatred for the government. During his time, the government was seen as corrupt and responsible for many injustices, especially towards the Confederate soldiers who fought in the Civil War. Jesse James, being a former Confederate soldier, may have seen robbing banks as a way to fight back against the government and take back what he believed was rightfully his.

Furthermore, many of Jesse James’ robbery targets were banks owned by Union supporters, allowing him to not only take money but also strike a blow at those he believed were responsible for the government’s actions.

Easy targets

Banks were, and still are, seen as a symbol of wealth and opportunity. Robbing banks meant potentially reaping large sums of money, making it an appealing target for someone like Jesse James, who came from a poor family. Banks were also relatively easy targets compared to other crimes such as robbing trains or stagecoaches, which required more planning and execution. Jesse James may have seen banks as an easy and quick way to acquire wealth.

Legacy and notoriety

In today’s society, celebrity status is often associated with wealth and fame. However, back in Jesse James’ time, notoriety was a form of fame. By robbing banks, Jesse James gained notoriety and became a household name. The more banks he robbed, the more famous he became, and this could have been a driving factor behind his choice to focus on robbing banks specifically.

In addition to fame, robbing banks also allowed Jesse James to create a legacy for himself. Through his daring and notorious robberies, he became a legend and was remembered long after his death. In a way, robbing banks allowed Jesse James to live on and be remembered even after his criminal life came to an end.

In conclusion

There were many reasons why Jesse James chose to rob banks over other crimes. Whether it was for the thrill of danger, revenge against the government, easy targets, or creating a legacy, it is clear that robbing banks played a significant role in shaping Jesse James’ criminal identity. Despite the risk and consequences, Jesse James chose to rob banks, and that choice only added to his infamous reputation as one of America’s most notorious outlaws.

For more articles on famous outlaws and the history of crime, head to whyisexplained.com and explore our collection of informative and engaging content. You can also check out our questions section for more articles related to this topic and other intriguing topics.

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