Tiburcio Vasquez Research Paper

Tiburcio Vasquez was born August 11, 1835, in Monterey, Mexico. At the age of 17, his criminal career began. He was attending a fandango with his cousin and a fight broke out. Constable William Hardmount was killed in the fight. Although Vasquez and his cousin weren’t involved they both fled the site. A friend of Vasquez who also attended the fandango was hanged the following day. Hidden somewhere far from the scene and knowing he’s a fugitive Vasquez joined a gang. He eventually became the leader of the group. Vazquez roamed California stealing horses from the whites explaining to everyone that they deserve that for discriminating against those from Mexican decent. In 1857, Vasquez was caught by the law right after stealing a group of horses. …show more content…
Once out of jail he went back to Monterey. On August 26, 1873, his gang robbed a store in Tres Pinos in San Benito County stealing more than $500 and killing three innocent civilians. Governor Newton Booth offered $1,000 to anyone who would lead to his capture. Vasquez spent most of his time hidden in the canyons of Tejon Pass. On December 26, they robbed a local store taking more than $3,000. The reward for Vasquez was increased from $1,000 to $15,000. While hiding out in a cabin he seduced a girl eventually leaving her pregnant. A family member of the girl notified the authorities and gave evidence against him. Several days later Vasquez was captured in the Arroyo Seco are of Los Angeles. He was put in jail in Los Angles and later was transferred to San Benito County. In January, his trial began and Vasquez denied ever killing someone but was found guilty and sentenced to death. On March 19, 1875, Tiburcio Vasquez was hanged. Before being hanged Vasquez stated “A spirit of hatred and revenge took possession of me. I had numerous fights in defense of what I believed to be my rights and those of my countrymen. I believed we were unjustly deprived of the social rights that belonged to