Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Black Cowboys
Sep 16, 2020
Discover the surprising history of black cowboys, who made up about a quarter of the cattle drivers in the Old West. Learn about their essential contributions during and after the Civil War, challenging the stereotype of what it means to be a cowboy. Hear stories of remarkable figures like Bass Reeves and Bill Pickett, who broke barriers in a segregated culture. Uncover the legacy of influential cowboys like Isom Dart and Nate Love, and appreciate the rich tapestry of cowboy heritage that often remains untold.
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The Untold Story of Black Cowboys
- Many Black cowboys worked in the American West after the Civil War.
- They are underrepresented in popular media depictions of cowboys.
The Shifting Perception of Cowboys
- Before the Civil War, being a cowboy was considered beneath white men.
- The term "cowboy" might have racist origins, as white workers preferred terms like "cowhand."
The Origins of Black Cowboys in Texas
- White Southerners migrated to Texas seeking cheap land and opportunities.
- They brought enslaved people, who became the earliest Black cowboys.
