Legendary frontiersman David "Davy" Crockett was born on this day (1786-1836) in a small cabin near Limestone, Tennessee, the fifth of nine children. No time for "book-learning," he ran away from home at age 13 and was educated by the wilderness.

Hunter and Indian fighter, Crockett served under Andrew Jackson in the War of 1812. He was elected to the Tennessee Legislature (1823) then U.S. House (1827 & 1833).

About his convictions, he said, "I have always supported measures and principles and not men. I have acted fearless and independent and I never will regret my course."

A skilled marksmen, with his long-barreled rifle, Betsy, legend had it that he killed 49 bears in one month.

"Let your tongue speak what your heart thinks," said the larger-than-life hero.

Charismatic, he was admired for his racy backwoods humor and buckskin clothes. He was a natural storyteller who enthralled with his many tall tales.  Outspoken, he was popular for his practical, witty insights on Washington politics.

"I know, that obscure as I am, my name is making a considerable deal of fuss in the world," he observed.

Defeated for re-election in 1835, he saw Texas as the new frontier for exploration and led a group of settlers there. The following year, Crockett was one of the 183 brave Americans who died heroically at the Alamo, helping Texas win independence from Mexico.

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