The Cypress Hills massacre stands as a significant event in the lore of the Wild West, illustrating the lawlessness that characterized the era. This violent incident highlighted the stark differences between Canadian and American frontier societies. In Canada, a more controlled monopoly trading system existed, while the U.S. was marked by fierce competition, the proliferation of alcohol, and a disregard for life, leading to exploitation and destruction.

Wallace Stegner's depiction of the massacre encapsulates the clash between these two systems, showcasing the devastating consequences of this conflict. The lawlessness prevalent in the American West, with its focus on violence and profit, ultimately resulted in tragedies like the Cypress Hills massacre, representing one of the last significant outbreaks of violence in the region.