2018-05-21

The Lone Ranger

Hi-yo, Silver! The Lone Ranger is back. Armie Hammer, who played the Winklevoss twins in "The Social Network" and Clyde Tolson in "J. Edgar," plays the man in the mask, and Johnny Depp plays Tonto. "Pirates of the Caribbean" director Gore Verbinski is a sure bet to include some eye-popping action. So, before we return once again to those thrilling days of yesteryear, let's take a look at the surprising history of the Lone Ranger and Tonto.

Nell Minow is Movie Mom

One

The character was introduced on the radio in 1933 and became so popular it inspired a series of books and then a television series and movies.

Two

The theme music from the radio and television series was "The William Tell Overture" by Gioachino Rossini.

Three

He was once a Texas Ranger. When his division was ambushed by a bandit gang. All of the others, including his brother, were killed and he was left for dead. He was rescued by an Indian he had once saved named Tonto, who nursed him back to health.

Four

He wears a mask made from his brother's vest, to conceal his identity, so he can fight for justice without putting those close to him at risk.

Five

Fran Stiker wrote the Lone Ranger books and is credited with creating the character. Here is his version of the Lone Ranger's creed: "I believe that to have a friend, a man must be one. That all men are created equal and that everyone has within himself the power to make this a better world. That God put the firewood there but that every man must gather and light it himself. In being prepared physically, mentally, and morally to fight when necessary for that which is right. That a man should make the most of what equipment he has. That 'This government, of the people, by the people and for the people' shall live always. That men should live by the rule of what is best for the greatest number. That sooner or later... somewhere...somehow... we must settle with the world and make payment for what we have taken. That all things change but truth, and that truth alone, lives on forever. In my Creator, my country, my fellow man."

Six

The television series starred Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger (except for season three, which starred Bruce Hart) and Jay Silverheels as Tonto.

Seven

Kemosabe means "trusted friend"

Eight

The Green Hornet is The Lone Ranger's great-nephew, also a masked crime-fighter with a sidekick.

Nine

The Lone Ranger's horse is named Silver and Tonto's horse is named Scout.

Ten

He uses only silver bullets, to remind himself that each life is precious. He shoots to hurt, but not to kill.

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