Jesse James, played by Audie Murphy, is seduced by the outlaw William Quantrill, portrayed by Brian Donlevy, into joining the rebellion to avenge his parents' death. However, Jesse and his gang become disillusioned with the senseless violence and looting of innocent civilians. Quantrill's girl persuades Jesse to leave, but he hesitates until the Yankees close in, and Quantrill is forced to face them alone.
Kansas Raiders
A group of outlaws, including the James and Younger Brothers and Kit Dalton, join forces with Quantrill's Raiders to take revenge on the Redlegs, but their desire for vengeance ultimately leads them to commit even more heinous acts.
