High noon is a type of duel between two opponents, usually to settle a dispute or argument The term “high noon” originated in the mid-1800s to refer to the traditional time westerns had to fight their duels—noon. During this time, prominent members of the community would act as both judge and jury to ensure that the duel was fought fairly, and the result was accepted immediately by those present.
The idea of the “high noon” duel has been used throughout history to foster loyalty and respect between two parties. Generally, this type of duel consists of unarmed combat (e.g., boxing, wrestling, etc.) between two opponents, often taking place in a designated area such as a field. The aim is to settle a dispute with no interference from a third party. The high noon duel is considered a legal and honorable way to settle a dispute and is often seen as a form of justice.
Here are five best examples of high noon duels:
1. The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral: In October 1881, the famous gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place in Tombstone, Arizona when the Earp brothers and Doc Holliday faced off against the Clanton and McLaury brothers. Although the fight only lasted 30 seconds, it has become one of the most famous high noon duels in history.
2. The US-Mexican War: In April 1846, the United States declared war on Mexico and the two countries clashed in a series of high-noon duels. This conflict ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which officially ended the war and recognized the U.S.-Mexico border.
3. The Battle of Bunker Hill: During the Revolutionary War, the British Army and the Colonial militia clashed in a high-noon duel on the heights of Bunker Hill, Massachusetts. This battle was a major victory for the Americans, who managed to hold off the British with significantly lower numbers.
4. The Battle of Brandywine: During the American Revolution, the British and American forces clashed in a high-noon duel in Pennsylvania. The British forces were victorious, but the American forces inflicted a significant number of casualties, which changed the course of the war.
5. The Battle of the Alamo: In February 1836, the Mexican forces under General Santa Anna faced off against the Texan forces at the infamous Battle of the Alamo. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Texan forces managed to hold off the Mexican forces for twelve days before finally being defeated. The Battle of the Alamo has become a symbol of courage and bravery in the face of insurmountable odds.