hoboes

Hoboes were transient laborers and vagrants, typically men, who traveled across North America by freight train during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The term "hobo" itself is of uncertain origin, but it became widely adopted to describe this distinct subculture. These individuals often sought work in agricultural or industrial settings, moving from town to town as opportunities arose. Their transient lifestyle was often a result of economic hardship, such as the depressions of the 1870s and 1890s, or a desire for adventure and freedom from conventional life.

Hoboes developed their own unique culture, including a system of symbols or "hobo signs" scratched onto sidewalks or fences to communicate information about food, shelter, danger, or friendly people. They also had their own argot, or slang, which allowed them to identify each other and share knowledge. While many hoboes were genuinely seeking work, the stereotype often portrayed them as idle drifters. However, historical accounts reveal a complex group of individuals with varying motivations and circumstances.

The decline of the hobo era is largely attributed to the advent of the automobile, improved public transportation, and changing economic conditions, particularly following the Great Depression. While the classic hobo image has largely faded, the legacy of their transient lifestyle and the cultural elements they created continue to be a part of American folklore and historical study.