Lynching Launches Path of Revenge
During the California gold rush, Joaquin Murrieta and his wife lived in northwestern Mexico, where Joaquin worked as a successful prospector. Tensions escalated as American prospectors encroached on Mexican territory, leading to violent skirmishes. Tragically, Joaquin’s wife was raped and murdered during one of these skirmishes, prompting him to abandon gold prospecting and become a card dealer.
Racism plagued Joaquin, and he faced accusations of horse theft after borrowing a horse from his half-brother. Both he and his brother were lynched for this alleged offense, with his brother not surviving the punishment. This brutal incident ignited Joaquin’s thirst for revenge, setting him on a vengeful path.
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