The Life And Times Of The Real Rooster Cogburn - The Man Who Inspired True Grit

Rooster Cogburn, the larger-than-life character played by John Wayne in the famous western film "True Grit," is one of the most iconic figures in American cinema. His bravery, toughness, and sheer determination have captured the imagination of audiences for generations. But did you know that Rooster Cogburn was, in fact, based on a real-life individual whose adventures are just as captivating as any big-screen portrayal?

The Early Years

The real Rooster Cogburn, whose full name was Reuben J. Cogburn, was born on a small farm in Arkansas in 1835. From an early age, he displayed an innate sense of adventure and an indomitable spirit that set him apart from his peers. Growing up in a turbulent period of American history, Reuben witnessed firsthand the horrors of the Civil War and its aftermath.

Rooster:: The Life and Times of the Real Rooster Cogburn, the Man Who Inspired True Grit

by Brett Cogburn (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	572 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Despite the chaos around him, Reuben managed to acquire the skills necessary for survival in these harsh times. He became an expert marksman and horseman, honing his abilities while hunting for food and protecting his family from various dangers that lurked in the lawless frontier.

The Legend Takes Shape

After the war, Reuben found himself drawn to the pursuit of justice. With his trusty shotgun and unwavering sense of righteousness, he gradually gained a reputation as a no-nonsense lawman. Known for his grit and unyielding commitment to upholding the law, it was during this time that he earned the nickname "Rooster" due to his fearless nature and distinctive crow-like laugh.

Rooster Cogburn quickly became a legend in his own time. Stories of his daring escapades and sharpshooting skills spread throughout the land, and he soon found himself embroiled in numerous high-profile cases. Whether it was capturing notorious outlaws or leading posses in manhunts, Rooster always got the job done.

True Grit and Beyond

Rooster Cogburn's incredible exploits eventually caught the attention of author Charles Portis, who drew inspiration from the legendary lawman's life and created the unforgettable character of Rooster Cogburn in his novel "True Grit." The book was an instant success, and shortly thereafter, the film adaptation starring John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn captured the hearts of moviegoers worldwide.

While the film brought Rooster Cogburn's story to a broader audience, it was only a glimpse into the real-life adventurer's compelling existence. In his later years, Rooster continued to serve as a lawman, working tirelessly to maintain peace in frontier towns. He faced the challenges of a rapidly changing world, adapting his methods to the evolving nature of crime and justice.

Rumors persist that Rooster Cogburn went on to become a bounty hunter, tracking down fugitives with the same tenacity and fearlessness that defined his previous endeavors. Though the truth behind these accounts may be murky, they only add to the tapestry of intrigue that surrounds this legendary figure.

A Legacy That Endures

Rooster Cogburn passed away in 1911, but his legacy lives on. His indomitable spirit, unwavering sense of justice, and unmatched determination continue to inspire people across the world. The real-life man behind the character remains a symbol of courage and integrity.

So, the next time you watch "True Grit" or hear the name Rooster Cogburn, remember that this larger-than-life figure was not merely a creation for the silver screen, but a real person whose incredible feats will forever be etched in history.

Rooster:: The Life and Times of the Real Rooster Cogburn, the Man Who Inspired True Grit

by Brett Cogburn (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	572 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	240 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

“Fans of frontier arcana will revel” in this biography of the Arkansas cowboy, outlaw, and immortal Wild West frontiersman (Publishers Weekly).
 
Celebrated in Charles Portis’s classic novel and three hit films, the real “Rooster” Cogburn was as bold, brash, and bigger-than-life as the American West itself. Now, in this page-turning account, Cogburn’s great-great-grandson reveals the truth behind the fiction—and the man behind the myth . . .

He was born in 1866 in Fancy Hill, Arkansas, the descendant of pioneers and moonshiners. Six foot three, dark eyed, and a dead shot with a rifle, Franklin “Rooster” Cogburn was as hard as the rocky mountain ground his family settled. The only authority the Cogburn clan recognized was God and a gun. And though he never packed a badge, Rooster meted out his own justice—taking on a posse of US deputy marshals in a blazing showdown. Now a wanted man, with a $500 reward on his head, Rooster—proud, stubborn, fearless, and ornery to the bitter end—rode into legend.

In Rooster, “[Brett Cogburn]  . . . amazes and astounds us with the true-life story” of a genuine American icon, and unforgettable man of the West (Booklist).

“The author has done extensive research to bring the times and his ancestor to life. It’s an interesting read, especially for history buffs. His descriptions of the Fort Smith area, Indian Territory and southeastern Oklahoma are outstanding.” —The Oklahoman
 
“In this book, [Cogburn] has blended family lore and good research to produce an entertaining portrait.” —The Dallas Morning News