Have you hear of Bass Reeves? Well, if you have heard of the Lone Ranger then you already know parts of Bass Reeves’s storu. It’s clear he was likely the source for the legend of the Lone Ranger, and it seems Tonto was real too!

The “All American Hero” that became idolised in 1950s white America was based on the extraordinary life of Bass.

Reeves was born into slavery in 1838. His slave-master brought him along as another personal servant during the Civil War, when he fought for the confederate army.

When Reeves was attacked by his master (after he beat him at cards) he beat his master until he nearly died (he died in some accounts) and ran away knowing he was dead if he stayed.

He fled to Indian Territory in what is today Oklahoma and lived amongst the Seminole and Creek Nations of Native American Indians.

After the war, he married, became a father of 10 and a US Marshall.

He was known to wear disguises to trick outlaws, he left a silver coin as his trademark and rode with a Native tracker. Together they apprehended nearly 3000 criminals!

Absolutely fascinating and history that should not be ignored! Read more here: http://bit.ly/1fu9VT3