Law in the West

Students read a passage comparing the mythical cowboy “code of honor” with real frontier justice systems. They then answer comprehension and critical thinking questions about values, community challenges, vigilante behavior, and the differences between legend and reality. This activity helps students evaluate historical myths and understand how law enforcement evolved as towns grew. It builds interpretive reasoning and asks students to reflect on the importance of community standards vs. official legal systems.

Curriculum Matched Skills

Social Studies – Myth vs. Reality in the American West

English Language Arts – Critical Reading and Question Response

Social Studies – Development of Law and Order

Critical Thinking – Comparing Systems and Values

This worksheet is part of our American Frontier and Wild West Worksheets collection.