Belle Starr, born Myra Maybelle Shirley on February 5, 1848, in Carthage, Missouri, was an infamous American outlaw of the Old West. She is often referred to as the “Bandit Queen.” Belle Starr is remembered for her association with notorious outlaws and her own criminal activities, which included horse theft, robbery, and consorting with other criminals.
Her life was marked by her connections with infamous figures such as Jesse James and the Younger brothers. She married several times, with her most notable marriage being to Sam Starr, a Cherokee who was also involved in criminal activities. Together, they operated within the Indian Territory (now Oklahoma), where they engaged in various illegal ventures.
Belle Starr’s lifestyle led her into numerous run-ins with the law. She was arrested multiple times and even served time in prison. Despite her criminal background, she became a legendary figure, romanticized in folklore, literature, and films for her rebellious and adventurous spirit.
Starr’s life ended violently when she was ambushed and shot to death near Eufaula, Oklahoma, on February 3, 1889, just two days before her 41st birthday. The identity of her killer remains a mystery, adding to the legend surrounding her life and death.
