[originaltext] For many people, Davy Crockett represented the spirit of the

For many people, Davy Crockett represented the spirit of the American wilderness. David Crockett was born in what is now Greene County, Tennessee in 1786. He was the fifth of nine children born to John and Rebecca Hawkins Crockett.
    (33) Life in the wilderness was difficult. John Crockett repeatedly moved his family in an effort to find a good place to live. In 1796, he opened a tavern, or drinking place. The tavern was a popular stop for travelers. Davy probably heard many stories told by the people at his father’s tavern.
     Davy Crockett started attending a small school when he was about thirteen years old. A few days later, he fought with another boy at the school. (34) After that, Davy decided to nm away from home to escape his father’s punishment. For more than two years, he worked a number of unskilled jobs to support himself. When Davy returned home, he was so tall that, his family did not. recognize him. When they finally did, they celebrated his return.
    Two hundred years ago, a boy either worked for his father or surrendered his pay if he worked for someone else. To gain his independence, Davy worked for about a year to help pay his father’s debts. He borrowed a gun from one employer and became good at shooting. (35) Within a short time, Davy was a skilled hunter and trapper of wild animals. By this, he was able to provide food and clothing for himself and his family.