Ep 1. Cowboys vs. Hollywood

In the season 6 premiere episode of America: Facts vs. Fiction titled "Cowboys vs. Hollywood," the show tackles one of the most romanticized periods in American history - the Wild West. The episode attempts to separate fact from fiction by exploring some of the most popular myths and legends surrounding this time and its most iconic figures.

The episode starts by looking into the story of the legendary cowboy, Buffalo Bill. The show looks into how he became a symbol of American toughness and bravery and how he managed to capture the imagination of millions. The episode also questions how much of his story was based in reality and how much of it was just part of his larger-than-life persona.

Next, the episode delves into the world of Hollywood cowboys and examines their role in shaping our perception of the Wild West. The show looks at some of the biggest movie stars of the time, such as John Wayne, and how they portrayed cowboys on the big screen. The episode also touches on how movies often portrayed Native Americans in a negative light, perpetuating negative stereotypes that have persisted to this day.

The episode then moves on to another iconic western figure, Wyatt Earp. The show explores his role in the gunfight at the O.K. Corral, examining whether he was a hero or a villain. The episode sheds light on the fact that much of what we know about Earp is based on sensationalized accounts of the shootout, and that we may never truly know exactly what happened.

The episode also takes a look into the McLeod gang, a notorious group of outlaws who operated in the late 19th century. The show examines how they became infamous and how much of their story has been romanticized over time. The episode also looks at the role law enforcement played in bringing these criminals to justice.

Throughout the episode, the show attempts to separate fact from fiction, examining how much of what we know about the Wild West is actually true. The episode also explores how our perception of this time has been shaped by movies and other forms of media, as well as by our own cultural biases and prejudices.

Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that the history of the Wild West is a complex and multifaceted story that can't be reduced to simple myths and legends. By examining the truth behind some of the most famous western stories and figures, the show encourages viewers to take a more nuanced and critical look at this important period in American history.