Definition

Proper noun * Jesse James: An infamous American outlaw and folk figure of the 19th century. He was a former Confederate guerrilla who, after the American Civil War, led the "James-Younger Gang." He became notorious for robbing banks, stagecoaches, and trains across the Midwestern United States. His life of crime, dramatic escapes, and violent death contributed to his legendary status in American folklore.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The ballad tells the story of the notorious outlaw Jesse James.
  • Many books have been written about the life and crimes of Jesse James.
  • The museum exhibit features artifacts from the era of Jesse James.

Advanced Usage

• "the Jesse James of [something]": Used metaphorically to describe someone who is a notorious or rebellious figure in a particular field.
  • He was called the Jesse James of Wall Street for his aggressive and controversial trading tactics.

Variants and Related Words

• James-Younger Gang (proper noun): The name of the criminal gang led by Jesse James and his brother Frank, which included the Younger brothers.
• Outlaw (noun): A person who has broken the law and lives outside the protection of the law, often used synonymously with terms like bandit or desperado.

Synonyms

• Bandit
• Desperado
• Highwayman (though this term is older and more associated with a different era)
• Bushwhacker (specifically referencing his Confederate guerrilla background)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To meet a Jesse James end": To die in a sudden, violent, and treacherous manner, often betrayed by someone close. This references his murder by Robert Ford, a member of his own gang.
  • The corrupt politician finally met a Jesse James end, shot by a former ally.

Noun

1. United States outlaw who fought as a Confederate soldier and later led a band of outlaws that robbed trains and banks in the West until he was murdered by a member of his own gang (1847-1882)