David Crockett was an American frontiersman, politician, and autobiographical writer whose life became the basis of a lasting folk legend. His Narrative of the Life of David Crockett presents the experiences and public image of a man known for hunting, storytelling, and plainspoken political opinions. The book offers a different perspective from many later tales about Davy Crockett.

Raised in Tennessee, Crockett worked on the frontier and served in the militia before entering politics. He represented his state in Congress, where he opposed important policies of Andrew Jackson, including the Indian Removal Act. His public career made him nationally known well before his final journey to Texas.

Written with assistance from fellow congressman Thomas Chilton, his autobiography appeared in 1834 and helped shape his reputation while he was still alive. Crockett later joined the Texas Revolution and died at the Alamo. Plays, popular publications, and eventually films and television expanded the legend around him. Reading his own narrative helps distinguish the historical figure's voice and ambitions from the mythology that followed.