History of the West

Back by popular demand—here are 9 more of the best cowboy books ever written, featuring reader-recommended favorites and classic tales of the American West. Saddle up for stories packed with grit, adventure, and the true spirit of cowboy life.

Cattle drives were the lifeblood of the American West, connecting Texas ranches to northern markets through grit, determination, and daring. From treacherous rivers to stampedes, these journeys forged the cowboy legacy and shaped the economic and cultural landscape of a nation.

Explore Teddy Roosevelt’s rugged journey from cowboy to conservationist. Discover how his Western ranching days shaped his presidency and legacy, leaving a lasting impact on American conservation and the cowboy spirit.

The ranch rodeo, rooted in the ranching traditions of North America, features teams of cowboys competing in tasks like branding and cattle sorting, demonstrating timeless Western culture.

Cowboys traveling long distances relied on cowboy bedrolls, a precursor to modern sleeping bags, for a good night’s sleep on the open range. The bedroll served as a waterproof shell for carrying bedding and personal belongings.

Cowboys have their own language, with unique terms. These terms reflect cowboy culture, from horse traditions to weather phenomena, here’s five interesting terms shaping the iconic image of the cowboy.

Cowboy spurs, essential for directing horses, are a blend of functionality and artistry, originating from ancient designs across cultures. They symbolize tradition, horsemanship, and personal expression within cowboy culture, highlighting their dual role as both tools and decorative artifacts.

The Texas Rangers have a storied history, originating from Anglo-American settlement in Texas. Organized initially for protection against native tribes and bandits, they later became involved in conflicts with Mexico. The force underwent various transformations, playing pivotal roles in key historical events. Today, their role …

The Comanche, renowned for horsemanship, were led by Quanah Parker, their Last Chief. He balanced native traditions with interactions with white settlers, founding the Native American Church and advocating for his tribe.

Explore the incredible life of Buffalo Bill Cody—cowboy, scout, and legendary showman. Discover how he became an icon of the American West, his Wild West shows, and the lasting impact he made on western culture and history.