A Custom Brought from Europe
Dueling arrived in North America in 1621, when two servants in Plymouth fought with swords and both survived. Over time, the practice evolved into formal affairs governed by the Code Duello, which required specific rules, seconds, secluded locations, and the challenged party’s choice of weapons.
Bloodshed Across State Lines
Certain locations became known for hosting duels. Bloody Island, once a sandbar in the Mississippi River, drew participants because it sat between Missouri and Illinois jurisdiction. In the early 1800s, political rivals and prominent citizens met there to settle disputes with pistols.
A Southern Ritual
In New Orleans, the Dueling Oaks became a familiar setting for Creole society. In 1839, more than ten duels took place in the park on a single Sunday. Disagreements over honor, regional pride, and social rank led many to the same clearing beneath the trees.
Where Laws and Bullets Met
Kentucky Downs, once called the Dueling Grounds Race Course, was active in the 19th century. Duelists crossed from Tennessee, where the practice was banned. One confrontation between attorneys in 1827 ended in a death and led to a court ruling allowing disbarment for dueling participants.
Dueling was once a central ritual in early America, brought from Europe and adapted to local customs.
From political feuds to personal insults, conflicts were settled with matched pistols, formal challenges, and strict rules that dictated when honor was at stake…🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/hS4yMkDYv5
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) May 12, 2025