cowboy

A cowboy is a cattle herder and horseman whose work centers on managing cattle and other livestock, traditionally in the American West. The role developed in the 19th century, drawing from Spanish and Mexican vaquero traditions and adapting to the needs of long cattle drives, ranching, and open-range settlement. Cowboys have been associated with regions such as Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, Montana, and Oklahoma, though the term is used broadly for cattle ranch workers.

Typical duties include guiding and tending herds over long distances, branding and marking cattle, sorting and separating animals, mending fences, and maintaining water and shelter for the stock. They also perform camp duties on the trail, handle horses and equipment, and sometimes administer basic veterinary care. Skills emphasized in the work include horsemanship, roping (lassoing), riding across varied terrain, and the ability to work under harsh weather and long hours.

Equipment and attire are distinctive markers of the cowboy image. A sturdy saddle, bridle, and lariat are essential tools, along with branding irons. Common clothing includes a broad-brimmed hat, bandana, shirt, chaps, jeans or sturdy pants, boots, and spurs. These items are chosen for protection, practicality, and durability in the field.

Cultural impact and legacy are significant. The cowboy became a symbol of the American West in literature, film, and music, influencing rodeo sports that feature events such as roping and bronc riding. While modern cattle operations rely on more mechanization and permanent ranch hands, the working cowboy persists in some regions, and the image remains a widely recognized emblem of Western heritage. Regional terms such as buckaroo in parts of the West reflect linguistic variations within the broader cowboy tradition.