The True Story Behind Lawmen: Bass Reeves

The Historical Inaccuracies of Lawmen: Bass Reeves

Lawmen: Bass Reeves, a series initially rooted in historical accuracy, took creative liberties that resulted in several historical inaccuracies and missing details, especially in its later episodes. While the portrayal of Bass Reeves (David Oyelowo) in the series introduced compelling moral and religious dilemmas, it also left out significant real-life events of the Old West legend.

Bass Reeves riding in Lawmen Bass Reeves episode 7

The finale of Lawmen: Bass Reeves presents a fictional confrontation with Esau Pierce, who is revealed to be the mythical slave catcher Mr. Sundown. This serialized and fictionalized ending focuses on the dramatic encounters between Bass Reeves, Billy Crow, Jackson Cole, and the infamous Mr. Sundown, deviating from the true legend of the lawman.

Bass Reeves in Lawmen Bass Reeves finale

The series omits some of the most remarkable and tragic occurrences in the life of Bass Reeves. The true story, featuring over 3000 arrests and just 14 confirmed kills in his 30+ year career, is overshadowed by the fabricated confrontations and altered timelines depicted in Lawmen: Bass Reeves.

Jennie hugs Esme in Lawmen Bass Reeves episode 7

The Unseen Tragedies of Bass Reeves' Life

One of the biggest omissions from Lawmen: Bass Reeves was the tragic event of Bass Reeves arresting his own son, Benjamin 'Bennie' Reeves, for murder. This real-life tragedy, which saw Bennie serving 11 years in prison for killing his wife, was not included in the series, despite its potential for compelling drama. If Lawmen: Bass Reeves continues with multiple seasons, it would be necessary to include this significant life event.

Sally Reeves in Lawmen Bass Reeves epiosde 6

Additionally, the true occurrences of Bass Reeves' life, such as the emotional final message from Jim Webb and the circumstances surrounding his murder trial, offer a deeper understanding of the complexities and tragedies in the lawman's life. These unseen tragedies, including the deaths of several of Bass Reeves' children and the health issues faced by his wife, Jennie Reeves, present a more poignant and humanizing portrayal of the legendary figure.

Bass Reeves in court in Lawmen Bass Reeves episode 7

The Legacy and Aftermath of Bass Reeves

Despite the historical inaccuracies and missing details in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, the series offers an opportunity to explore the legacy and aftermath of Bass Reeves' life. His remarriage to Winnie Sumter, the financial struggles resulting from his murder trial, and his transition from a Deputy U.S. Marshal to a police officer in Oklahoma provide a glimpse into the later years of his life, which are not fully depicted in the series.

Bass Reeves in Lawmen Bass Reeves episode 7

Bass Reeves' impact on creating a safer community in Eastern Texas, his bankruptcy after the murder trial, and his transition to a police officer in Oklahoma all contribute to the multifaceted legacy of the legendary lawman. The true story of Bass Reeves extends beyond the events portrayed in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by the real-life figure.

Bass Reeves kills Jim Webb in Lawmen Bass Reeves episode 5