Summary of Ep. 661: So You Want To Be A Mountain Man – The MeatEater Podcast

Release Date: February 10, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 661 of The MeatEater Podcast, host Steven Rinella delves deep into the rugged and enigmatic world of the mountain men era with his guest Randall. Titled "So You Want To Be A Mountain Man," the episode serves as a comprehensive preview of their upcoming audiobook, MeatEaters American History: The Mountain Men 1806-1840. This episode is a treasure trove for American history enthusiasts, hunting aficionados, and anyone intrigued by the untamed spirit of the American frontier.

Overview of the Mountain Men Era

Rinella and Randall kick off the discussion by introducing their new audiobook, which explores the Rocky Mountain beaver trade and the lives of legendary mountain men such as Jim Bridger, Jedediah Smith, and John Colter. Randall humorously sets the tone at [01:39] by saying, “This is the Meat Eaters Podcast coming at you shirtless, severely bug bitten, and in my case, underwearless.” They emphasize the transition from the earlier Long Hunters era (1761-1775) to the Mountain Men era (1806-1840), highlighting the evolution of market hunting and the significance of beaver pelts in shaping the economy and culture of the American West.

Defining the Mountain Man

A significant portion of the episode focuses on defining what it truly means to be a mountain man. Randall explains at [36:47], “So the long hunters were a group of individuals in the late colonial period based primarily in western Virginia... They were basically cash poor farmers who... supplied whitetail deerskins to a leather market in Europe.” In contrast, mountain men are portrayed as nomadic beaver trappers deeply entwined with the wilderness, relying on self-sufficiency and adaptability.

Historical Context and Timeline

The discussion delves into the geopolitical landscape that spurred the mountain man era. Starting in [1806], with John Colter leaving the Lewis and Clark Expedition to join other trappers, the era is framed by significant events like the Louisiana Purchase and the establishment of the rendezvous system by William H. Ashley in [1825]. Randall highlights the complexities of American westward expansion, noting the intricate relationships and conflicts with Native American tribes, comparing the Hudson’s Bay Company's structured fur trade model with the often chaotic and solitary pursuits of American trappers.

Key Figures: Jim Bridger, Jedediah Smith, John Colter, and Daniel Boone

The episode spotlights iconic figures who epitomized the mountain man ethos. Daniel Boone is discussed as a bridge between the Long Hunters and the Mountain Men, with his eventual disillusionment leading him to Missouri before the Louisiana Purchase [47:45]. John Colter is celebrated as perhaps the first mountain man, with his extraordinary wilderness adventures and survival skills [67:11]. Jim Bridger and Jedediah Smith are also mentioned as central characters whose exploits and interactions with both nature and Native Americans shaped the era.

Lifestyle of the Mountain Men

Rinella and Randall provide an immersive look into the daily lives of mountain men. From their diet, which heavily relied on buffalo, elk, and other wild game, to their minimalist gear consisting of traps, rifles, and essential tools, the mountain men were paragons of self-reliance. At [85:34], Randall notes, “They were living year round in the Rockies... limited in what they can carry with them in terms of supplies.” The conversation touches on their methods of hunting and trapping, the construction of hide traps, and the use of techniques like amputations performed in the wilderness [00:00].

Interactions with Native Americans

A nuanced discussion unfolds around the complex relationships between mountain men and Native American tribes. Randall explains at [86:37], “There are some tribes, Flatheads, Nez Perce, who throw in really heavily with the mountain men... Some tribes just absolutely resist them.” They explore how mountain men adopted certain Native customs—such as language, dress, and marriage—while simultaneously maintaining prejudiced views, leading to a tapestry of cooperation and conflict.

Dangers and Mortality

The perilous life of a mountain man is a recurring theme. Randall states at [103:49], “There was probably three or 4,000 mountain men during the period... Hundreds of them died violently.” The episode cites historical data indicating that approximately 10% of mountain men met violent ends, whether through conflicts, accidents, or harsh environmental conditions. Tales of survival, such as the harrowing experiences of Osborne Russell and the infamous Donner Party’s interactions influenced by mountain man advice, underscore the constant threat to life.

Cultural and Economic Impact

Rinella and Randall discuss the mountain men’s role in forging the American frontier mythos. Their quests for beaver pelts were not just economic ventures but also adventures that captivated the public imagination. The establishment of the rendezvous system revolutionized fur trading, creating annual gatherings that became legendary in their own right. Randall muses at [84:02], “The rendezvous is kind of the beating heart of the mountain man era,” emphasizing its significance in the social and economic structures of the time.

Conclusion and Future Volumes

As the episode wraps up, Rinella and Randall tease the continuation of their historical exploration into the buffalo trade era (1840-1882), hinting at the ecological and economic legacies left by these hunters. Randall humorously notes the lack of heroic figures in the buffalo trade, labeling them more as villains due to the massive decimation of buffalo populations [107:10]. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to pre-order the audiobook available for $11.99 and stay tuned for upcoming volumes that promise to unravel more chapters of America's wild history.

Notable Quotes

• Randall at [36:47]: “So the long hunters were a group of individuals in the late colonial period... They were... cash poor farmers who... supplied whitetail deerskins to a leather market in Europe.”

• Douglas Randall at [84:02]: “The rendezvous is kind of the beating heart of the mountain man era.”

• Thomas Ashley at [85:34]: “Nothing is actually necessary for the support of men in the wilderness than a plentiful supply of good fresh meat.”

Final Thoughts

Episode 661 offers a meticulously detailed preview of MeatEaters American History: The Mountain Men 1806-1840, blending rigorous historical analysis with engaging storytelling. Through insightful dialogue and vivid descriptions, Rinella and Randall paint a comprehensive picture of the mountain men’s world—its triumphs, tragedies, and enduring legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned historian or new to the topic, this episode provides a compelling invitation to explore the raw and unvarnished truths of America’s frontier heroes.