A
vendetta is described as a feud between clans or families. This does not
include the obvious, that vendettas end in killings.
The
feud between the Hatfields and the McCoys took place in the Appalachian area of
Kentucky and West Virginia. The many fights and killings of this famous
American vendetta generated speculation over the years comparable to the
question of Jack the Ripper’s identity.
Vendettas
have caused incalculable wars. The assassination of an Austrian heir ignited
World War One. Documents, dissertations, and movies list numerous cause for The
American Civil War. A feud is marked by “violent attacks undertaken for revenge.”
The feud described as “the war between the states” lasted for four years.
While
reading about various vendettas, I recognized one common theme. There are heads
on a spike, beheadings, headless horsemen, and double taps to the head. Mob
bosses declare, “Heads will roll.” While those being pursued head for the hills,
pursuers are told to “Head ‘em off at the pass.”
Touring
an Italian town in The Godfather,
Michael asks, “Where have all the men gone?” and is told, “They’re all dead
from vendettas.” Those men fought and died defending their beliefs.
But
what about the horse?
