The History of Cowboys
Origins of Cowboy Culture
Spanish Influence
Cowboy culture has multiple origins. The oldest source of cowboy culture is from the Spanish colonization of the Americas. In the 16th century, the Spanish brought cattle ranching to the Americas. Throughout Mexico and the southern United States, vaquero ranching became popular. In this type of ranching, men used horses to herd cattle to different grazing areas. Over time, this Spanish influence melded with the local people to form what we know today as the cowboy.
American West
Three centuries later, the American West saw a large influx of settlers into the area. Despite this, cowboys continued to handle large herds. Generally, the cowboy became incredibly popular. Stories were written and sold romanticizing the life of a cowboy.
Additionally, actors put on shows portraying cowboys' heroic actions in the Wild West. But in reality, cowboys faced grueling work conditions as they lived in the elements and regularly risked their lives.
Cowboy Life and Duties
Cattle Drives
A cowboy’s main job is to take care of the herd. Besides handling medical care, cowboys also herd cattle to different grazing areas yearly. On cattle drives, cowboys and cattle face food and water shortages, predators, bandits, harsh weather, and rough ground.
Cowboys are on horseback throughout the cattle drive. The team works together to direct the cattle in the correct direction. The team has to communicate over long distances and take turns riding alongside the herd and riding drag.
Ranch Work
When the cattle are near the ranch, the cowboy has several chores. Often, cowboys are responsible for the safety and health of the herd. Additionally, the cowboys maintain the facilities and the equipment for managing the herd, such as fences and barns.
Rodeo Skills
Many of the skills cowboys use daily have become a part of rodeo culture. In competitions, cowboys showcase their talents at bull riding, roping, horse racing, and steer wrestling.
Iconography and Representation
Cowboy Attire
A cowboy is one of the all-time favorite costumes for little kids. That is because the attire of a cowboy is so recognizable and classic. Cowboys often wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect their face and neck from the sun. Additionally, cowboys use bandanas to protect their mouths from the dust stirred up by the cattle.
Cowboys also wear a button-up shirt, jeans, and cowboy boots. Button-up shirts protect a cowboy’s body from the elements while allowing airflow. Jeans protect legs from brush and other rough terrain. Finally, cowboy boots protect the cowboy from brush and other natural obstacles.
Symbolism in Media
Cowboys are genuinely iconic figures. They are in every form of media that has ever existed. From short stories, news articles, TV shows, movies, and plays, the cowboy is a piece of American culture. Cowboys are always portrayed as tough and rough men, often considered heroes for their bravery and self-reliance.