Question

Explain how Murphy used his businesses to gain economic power.

Trace the proposed east-west railroad routes.


Trace the history of the development of the cattle trails.


Describe the legal action against McSween and the actions that followed.

Answer 1

The Mescalero population was 325, but Murphy billed the United States government for supplying food to 2,679 people. This scam brought him $125,000 in 2 years. Murphy also owned the hotel, brewery, bank, and his war buddy, William Brady, was elected sheriff. Murphy is quoted as saying “You might as well try to stop the waves of the ocean with a fork as to try to oppose me.” Rustlers from Seven Rivers stole cattle from Chisum and sold them to Murphy who used the cattle to fill contracts with the forts or Mescalero reservation.