Ep 6. Tom Fitzpatrick: Trapper, Trader, Legend

Tom Fitzpatrick: Trapper, Trader, Legend is the sixth episode of season 1 of Into the Wild Frontier. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the life and adventures of Tom Fitzpatrick, a legendary trapper and trader who played a significant role in the exploration and settling of the American West.

The episode begins with a brief overview of Fitzpatrick's early life, including his birth into a large Irish Catholic family in upstate New York, his time as a sailor, and his eventual journey to the frontier as a fur trapper. As viewers follow Fitzpatrick through his various adventures, they quickly learn that his skills as a trapper, trader, and frontiersman were unmatched, and that his influence was felt far and wide throughout the West.

Over the course of the episode, viewers are treated to a number of fascinating stories and anecdotes about Fitzpatrick's exploits. From his famous "Leap of Death" across a treacherous chasm to his role in the establishment of Fort Bridger and his gift of horses to the Shoshone tribe, Fitzpatrick's life was never dull or uneventful. Throughout it all, however, he remained a steadfast and respected figure, committed to his trading and trapping work and the communities he helped to build.

One particular highlight of the episode is the discussion of Fitzpatrick's relationship with the famous mountain man Jim Bridger. The two men had a complicated relationship, marked by both friendship and fierce competition. Despite this, however, they both managed to achieve great success and leave a lasting legacy on the West.

Overall, Tom Fitzpatrick: Trapper, Trader, Legend is a fascinating look into the life of one of the most influential and important figures of the American frontier. Through interviews with historians and experts, as well as dramatic reenactments and archival footage, the episode paints a vivid picture of Fitzpatrick's life and times, and his crucial role in shaping the West. Whether you're a history buff or just someone interested in the stories of the American frontier, this episode is a must-watch.