Buffalo Bill: Why He Still Matters

Described by a U.S. President as an “American of Americans,” William F. Cody Remains Vital to Our Nation.

- Paul Andrew Hutton

William F. Cody was a man seemingly trapped in the distant past, yet one who cared desperately about the onrushing future—for himself, his family, his business and his country.

He was progressive in politics (he favored votes for women long before President Woodrow Wilson came around) and was, for his time and place, enlightened on questions of race and equality.

He had risen from poverty to incredible wealth, was fawned over by kings and queens, presidents and captains of industry, and in his time was the living symbol of “The American.”

The 26th U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt described Cody as an “American of Americans,” adding, “...his memory should be dear to all Americans, for he embodied those traits of courage, strength and self-reliant hardihood which are vital to the well-being of our nation.”