Hope everyone knows that the original cowboys were Mexican, Native American and African American men, they were called Vaqueros and they created everything Hollywood stole for their white cowboy films (though I'm sure no one really thought white men invented all that macho swagger).
In fact, it was one of the few ways these men were able to make money as free men. They worked for the highest bidder, like contractors, moving cattle through the harsh desert environment on just their horses so they had to be very sturdy and very skilled.
Even rodeos (a Spanish word) were something the Vaqueros invented, originally just as a way of having fun when they finished a job. They'd gather in a field to show off their skills to each other, held contests, made games, obstacle courses and timed races. Eventually, people would come to watch the impressive skill of these men; it grew wildly popular and quickly turned into an entire show.
Probably the best known thing about the modern cowboy is the clothing, which was also created by these Vaqueros. The tall tough boots (needed to walk on rocky terrain and keep out dirt, bugs and snakes) made of various desert creature skins, the thick shawl to protect from sun and dust but also from cold desert nights, the wide brim hat to shade their faces and necks, scarves to wipe sweat, pants with leather around the legs to protect from long rides on horses, they were even known to make their own rope!
So, just wanted to share some of this interesting history with the release of the ranch horse pack and in case anyone out there didn't already know, now you know!
