National Cowboy Day

Young cowboy riding a horse, wearing a Stetson hat and leather boots, in a rustic western landscape with rolling hills and cacti.. — National cowboy day illustration

Ever get the urge to pull out your old cowboy boots, saddle, and cowboy hat? Well, howdy partner, strap on that six-gun and dig out that bandana because National Cowboy Day is riding into town! This day isn't just for the rough and tough cowfolks, it's for anyone who loves tumbleweeds, trail songs and the wild, wild West!

When is Cowboy Day?

It's national cowboy day on the 28th July.

A Gazette straight from the Wild West

With a history as rich as the golden nuggets found during the gold rush, National Cowboy Day can be an amazing journey back to the era of trailblazers and outlaws. On this day, i.e., the fourth Saturday in July each year, we detected a whopping total of 2918 mentions online showing that the spirit of the Wild West still lives on in today's digital age!

A Stampede of Joy on July 28, 2018

Interestingly, the highest spike in mentions that we discovered was on July 28, 2018. Maybe it was as hotter than a $2 pistol on that day or maybe folks were just really feeling the cowboy culture. The reasons surely seem as mysterious as a ghost town!

Giddy up, Cowboys and Cowgirls!

So how do people celebrate National Cowboy Day in the digital expanse of the World Wild Web? Social media becomes the new rodeo space where folks get into the spirit, sharing photos in chaps, spurs, and cowboy hats, as well as iconic cowboy quotes and verses, paying homage to this distinctive American culture. So saddle up and get ready to ride the dusty trails of yore, partner!

History behind the term 'Cowboy'

1803

Spanish Vaqueros Arrive in America

In 1803, Spanish vaqueros, who were skilled cattle herders on horseback, brought their ranching skills to the Americas. Vaqueros were highly regarded for their expertise in roping, branding, and handling cattle. This early influence laid the foundation for the American cowboy.

1866

The Rise of Texas Cowboys

After the Civil War, the cattle industry in the United States began to flourish. Massive herds of longhorn cattle roamed the open plains of Texas, and the demand for beef was on the rise. Texas cowboys, influenced by the vaqueros' techniques, developed their own distinct style of horsemanship and cattle handling.

1872

The Term 'Cowboy' Gains Popularity

The term 'cowboy' started gaining popularity in 1872. Originally, it was used to refer to the African American and Mexican cowhands who worked alongside white counterparts. Over time, the term became more widely used to describe all American cattle herders.

1883

The Cowboy in Popular Culture

The cowboy figure became a central character in Western literature and later in the burgeoning film industry. Authors like Zane Grey and Owen Wister wrote popular novels romanticizing the cowboy's life. Additionally, early silent movies featured rugged cowboys as heroes, further solidifying their cultural significance.

1900s

Legendary Cowboys and Rodeos

In the early 20th century, iconic cowboy figures emerged, such as Buffalo Bill Cody, Roy Rogers, and Gene Autry. These larger-than-life figures helped popularize the cowboy image worldwide. Rodeos also gained prominence during this time, showcasing the skills of cowboys in roping, riding, and bronco-busting.

1960s

Cowboy Revival and Cultural Impact

During the 1960s, there was a revival of interest in cowboys and Western culture. Western-themed television shows, such as 'Bonanza,' 'Gunsmoke,' and 'The Lone Ranger,' captured the imagination of audiences and perpetuated the idealized cowboy image. This fascination with cowboys continues to influence fashion, music, and popular culture.

Did you know?

Did you know the word 'Cowboy' was originally derogatory and used to describe cattle rustlers in Mexico? Over time it has become a symbol of honor and the adventurous spirit.