How do legends of the Wild West help us understand what life was like? They help us understand the real meaning of treaties. They help us understand who the real heroes were. They create a buzz about the Wild West and outlaws. They create an understanding about the railroads. They create an understanding about the Chinese.
Oftentimes, the legends of the Wild West help us understand what life was like during that time and location because "They create a buzz about the Wild West and outlaws," which forces us to learn the facts.