Who were The Cowboys and Cattlemen?

The Cowboys and Cattlemen were key figures in the American West during the late 19th century, primarily associated with the cattle ranching industry. Cowboys were responsible for herding and managing cattle on vast open ranges, often working on cattle drives that transported herds to railroads for shipping. Cattlemen, on the other hand, were ranch owners and operators who raised cattle for meat production and played a significant role in developing the cattle industry. Together, they contributed to the economic expansion and cultural identity of the American West, embodying the rugged, adventurous spirit of the frontier era.