Western Films About Traders – A Journey Through Commerce in the Wild West

Western Films About Traders – A Journey Through Commerce in the Wild West Business and Money in Westerns

The Wild West was not just about gunslingers and outlaws; it was also a land of opportunity for traders and merchants. This collection of films delves into the lives of those who braved the untamed frontier to trade goods, negotiate deals, and sometimes, fight for their survival. These stories provide a unique perspective on the economic and social fabric of the American West, showcasing the grit, determination, and sometimes the moral dilemmas faced by those who sought fortune through commerce. Here are ten films that capture the essence of trading in the wild west, each with its own twist on the classic western genre.

The Big Country (1958)
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The Big Country (1958)

Description: This epic western involves a sea captain who arrives in the West to marry into a ranching family, but finds himself caught in a land dispute, highlighting the economic and social dynamics of land ownership and trade.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Director for William Wyler.

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The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
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The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)

Description: While not exclusively about traders, the film features a lawyer-turned-rancher who becomes involved in the town's politics and economy, highlighting the transition from the lawless frontier to a more civilized society through commerce and law.

Fact: This film is often cited for its famous line, "When the legend becomes fact, print the legend." It was also one of John Ford's last major westerns.

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The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)
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The Ballad of Cable Hogue (1970)

Description: This film tells the story of Cable Hogue, a prospector who, after being left to die in the desert, finds water and turns it into a profitable way station. It's a unique blend of comedy, drama, and western themes, focusing on the entrepreneurial spirit of the West.

Fact: This was one of the last films directed by Sam Peckinpah, known for his gritty westerns. The film's theme song was performed by Jason Robards, who also stars in the movie.

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The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)
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The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean (1972)

Description: Judge Roy Bean, a self-appointed judge, also engages in trading and commerce in his own unique way, enforcing his version of law and order while profiting from the town he builds.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life figure of Judge Roy Bean, known as "The Law West of the Pecos."

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The Missouri Breaks (1976)
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The Missouri Breaks (1976)

Description: This film focuses on the conflict between a cattle rustler and a hired gun, but it also delves into the economic aspects of cattle trading and the impact of outlaws on local economies.

Fact: This was the only film to star both Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson.

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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
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The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Description: Josey Wales, after losing his family, becomes an outlaw but also engages in trading with Native Americans and others, showcasing the barter system and trade in the post-Civil War era.

Fact: Clint Eastwood not only starred in but also directed this film, which was one of the first to explore the complexities of the Civil War's aftermath in the West.

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The Professionals (1966)
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The Professionals (1966)

Description: While primarily an action-adventure, the film features a group of mercenaries hired to retrieve a kidnapped wife, showcasing the trade of services and the economic value of human life in the West.

Fact: The film was shot on location in the deserts of California and Nevada, giving it an authentic feel of the western landscape.

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The Far Country (1954)
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The Far Country (1954)

Description: James Stewart plays a cattleman who drives his herd to the Yukon, facing various challenges and engaging in trade along the way, showcasing the economic hardships and opportunities of the frontier.

Fact: The film was shot in Jasper National Park in Canada, which provided the stunning backdrop for the Yukon scenes.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
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The Culpepper Cattle Co. (1972)
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The Culpepper Cattle Co. (1972)

Description: This film follows a young man joining a cattle drive, learning the harsh realities of the cattle trade, and the economic dynamics of the cattle industry in the West.

Fact: The film was noted for its realistic portrayal of a cattle drive, with many scenes shot on location in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)
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The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)

Description: This film recounts the James-Younger Gang's attempt to rob a bank in Northfield, Minnesota, highlighting the economic implications of bank robberies on small towns and the trading of information.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Minnesota, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
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