As the ever-practical cowboy adapted to the modern world, his equipment and techniques also adapted, though many classic traditions are preserved. The English word cowboy has an origin from several earlier terms that referred to both age and to cattle or cattle-tending work.

Jul 28, 2025 · Cowboy, in the western United States, a horseman skilled at handling cattle, an indispensable laborer in the cattle industry of the trans-Mississippi west, and a romantic figure in American folklore.

Jul 24, 2025 · Celebrate the enduring legacy of the American cowboy. Discover the history, traditions, and values that make National Day of the Cowboy special.

Apr 26, 2010 · Though they originated in Mexico, American cowboys created a style and reputation all their own. Throughout history, their iconic lifestyle has been glamorized in countless books, movies and...

Feb 24, 2023 · The name “cowboy” came to be associated with the classic image of a horse-riding, hat-wearing, rugged figure who personified the spirit of the Old West. Yet, the phrase primarily alludes to the activity of cattle herding and ranching, which was critical to the growth of the American West.

May 3, 2022 · From Montana to Florida, real cowboys still play an important role in American society. Here are 15 regions where cowboy culture is alive and well.

Aug 6, 2009 · Cowboys come in many different varieties. The working cowboy and the urban cowboy are worlds apart, with many other flavors in between. Historic photos and artwork depicting cowboys break all the stereotypes and may just blow your mind!

Dec 23, 2016 · A cowboy is generally considered to be someone who tends cattle herds on North American ranches—usually from horseback. Historically, cowboys were regarded as independent, self-reliant, resourceful, proud, fearless and sometimes reckless.

The cowboy tradition began in Spain when the earliest European settlers brought cattle to the Americas. As Americans pushed westward, many Mexican vaqueros were working cattle, and the new settlers learned from them.

The term "cowboy" has a rich history that dates back centuries, with roots in both European and American cultures. In this article, we'll explore the origins of this iconic term and delve into the fascinating world of cowboys, their evolution, and their lasting impact on American culture.