Cockfighting: Breeds through the Law (through page 445) Summary and Analysis

This section begins by noting that Kelli Allred, a student, began her inquest into cockfighting expecting a gruesome tale. On the contrary, what she found was a practice based in history that is dignified, honorable, and with a cast of characters gentle and kind, and proud of their animals. Cockfighting has been in existence since before Jesus and has been practiced by even the regal of society all over the world. Allred notes cockfighting came to the Appalachians through immigration, much like the individuals living in the area, but that it was much more low key than in larger cities until later. In terms of breeds of chicken, there are many. Through many interviews, the writers learn of the Arkansas Traveler, Roundheads, Lacy Roundheads, Earl of Derby's, Morgan Whitehackles...