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Cowboys work on ranches handling cattle and horses, and are associated with the American West. The occupation has decreased over time, but they still actively work on ranches and compete in rodeos. The word “cowboy” has been in use since the 1700s, and the occupation arose when cattle ranchers saw the potential to sell their animals in other parts of the country. Cowboys acquired their skills from Spanish vaqueros, and work with a sturdy, agile, and quick cow horse. They wear protective attire and use accessories such as saddles, spurs, and rifles.
A cowboy is someone who works on a ranch handling cattle and horses. Cowboys are most closely associated with the American West, thanks to the art and literature that have featured this iconic figure. The exact number of modern day cowboys employed is unclear, but it is certainly far fewer than in the heyday of the American West. They actively work on ranches and even compete in rodeos to demonstrate their unique skills.
The word has been in use in English since at least the 1700s. In England, it was used to refer to a boy who was responsible for looking after livestock. In many cultures, younger members of society are responsible for caring for cows and other livestock, because it’s a relatively simple task when the livestock don’t need to be moved.
The modern sense of the cowboy arose when cattle ranchers began to see the potential to sell their animals in other parts of the country, where they could command higher prices. Ranchers drove cattle through the huge pastures of the west to help rotate grazing as well. As herding cattle over long distances requires more skill, the occupation began to be reserved for older, more experienced men.
Cowboys acquired their skills from the Spanish vaqueros, who were skilled at handling cattle. The title of vaquero has been corrupted by English speakers to “buckaroo”, a term still used in some regions of the United States. Their skills included herding, cutting, rope-roping, cooking, and veterinary care, as they were often isolated from assistance from outsiders. Someone who works specifically with horses is known as a wrangler.
Along with the cowboy goes the cow horse, or thoroughbred horse. A cow horse should be sturdy, agile, and quick when needed. The largest and strongest horses are used for the rope, so that the horse can hold its own against a large cow or bull. One of the most common breeds used for this purpose is the American Quarterhorse, a popular breed throughout the West for use on ranches and in competition.
Other things are closely associated with the cowboy, including the wide-brimmed hat, which protects the eyes and face from the sun, and the boots. Their attire usually includes heavy trousers, chaps, and shirts designed to protect them from the elements. Cowboys and their horses also have accessories such as saddles, spurs, med kits, rifles and other tools of the trade. The job is often quite difficult and has been heavily fictionalized by many Americans.
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