Cattle Kingdom: The Hidden History of the Cowboy West (Book Notes)

Written by Christopher Knowlton, "Cattle Kingdom: The Hidden History of the Cowboy West" explores the rise and fall of the American cattle industry during the late 19th century, and the social, economic, and environmental changes that it brought about in the American West.

At the heart of the book is the story of the cowboy, who became a symbol of the American West during this period. Knowlton delves into the history and mythology of the cowboy, tracing its origins to the vaqueros of Mexico and the Spanish colonial period, and exploring how the image of the cowboy was created and perpetuated in popular culture and media.

The book also delves into the rise of the cattle industry in the American West, which was fueled by the expansion of railroads and the growing demand for beef in the East. Knowlton provides a detailed account of the cattle drives, which involved the herding of thousands of cattle from Texas to the railheads in Kansas, and the social and economic impact that they had on the West.

In addition to the cowboy and the cattle industry, "Cattle Kingdom" explores a wide range of topics related to the American West during this period, including the role of women and African Americans in the cattle industry, the impact of technology and innovation, and the environmental consequences of the cattle industry's expansion.

The book has been praised for its engaging storytelling, its meticulous research, and its contributions to our understanding of the American West. "Cattle Kingdom" has been recognized with several awards, including the Western Heritage Award and the Colorado Book Award, and has been widely acclaimed by critics and readers alike as a fascinating and illuminating work of history.

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