Bigfoot Research Paper

Bigfoot in America: Real or Unreal?

One of the most well-known urban legends told is the story of Bigfoot. Much of the research has shown that there are several names assigned to the mammoth ape. According to Napier (1973), Bigfoot would be the creature found mostly in Northwest America, Sasquatch would be a creature named in British Colombia, the 49th parallel in the north-west states of America and Northern California, and the Abominable Snowman, or the Yeti would be the creature named in the Himalayas. Of course, “Wild Man” and “Savage” have also been names used to identify the creature. There’s been thousands of sightings across the world, but there have also been many misidentifications where those who think they have seen Bigfoot have really just seen an ordinary animal or person. Arment (2006) states an individual’s perception may color the eyewitness account. Such misidentifications include: hermits, fugitives, refugees, bears, gorillas, and simply people making up stories or rumors. In addition to sightings, there have been photos, videos, movies, and TV shows that strongly indicates the possibility of the existence of this creature. Though there is much evidence from sightings, myths, and recordings that Bigfoot exists, there is also much proof that it could all be a hoax. Incorrect sightings have led skeptics to argue over the existence of this being stating Bigfoot is really just a fable. So one has to ask oneself, does Bigfoot really exist or is it just another urban legend?

Myers 2

“The Wildman in many manifestations, forms part of the culture and mythology of almost every society since records begin.” (Shakley, 1983). The first documented record of Bigfoot was in the Epic of Gilgam...

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...e, or just attention. These three theories aren’t reasons on why he doesn’t exist, they are just strong points.

From countless sightings, records, myths, footprints, and research, there is a strong possibility Bigfoot is real. We can say he is real because of his full history in different ethnic backgrounds, thousands of sightings, and physical evidence left. Scientific evidence and skeptical observations could also show that there is a strong possibility Bigfoot is unreal. Skeptics say there is no fossil evidence, lack of breeding population, and reasons to hoax. There are so many strong indications the giant ape could just be a bear, or it could be a creature scientists have not yet fully discovered to prove it is real. Evidence of Bigfoot’s existence and nonexistence is equal. Both evidence and theories can help you decide on this creature’s presence.