Abstracts Communications and the Arts

The Hatfields and the McCoys: America’s Feud, as Portrayedin the New York, West Virginia, and Kentucky Press,1888-1890

by Audrey E Bonfig

This thesis examines the impact of the press during the Hatfield and McCoy feud of 1882-1890. This study was inspired by a History Channel program about the infamous feud, which discussed how the coverage of the feud may have influenced yellow journalism and Appalachian stereotypes.The Hatfield-McCoy feud was a bloody border war that occurred along the Tug River Valley, which separated Kentucky and West Virginia. By examining how the press covered the feud in newspapers and the era’s dime novels this thesis argues that sensational journalism was occurring as early as 1888—instead of the generally accepted date of 1895. While it cannot be said that the Hatfield-McCoy feud was what started sensational journalism, it is interesting to note that early examples of it were occurring during the feud. This thesis also argues that the feud may have greatly influenced the common Appalachian stereotypes of today through the use of media priming. By showering their stories with reports of wild mountain men and stern-faced Appalachian women, the reporters of the era may have contributed strongly to the stereotyping of an entire group of people. Advisors/Committee Members: Sweeney, Michael (Committee Chair).