It is appropriate for middle school and high school. Portrait of an American Icon Students will learn the origins and evolution of cowboys from their European origins through their apex during the 19th century in the American West. They will discern the actual jobs of cowboys and their media produced parallel. The cowboy has reached icon status in American history and media. Discuss how the American cowboy is a symbol of rugged individualism, masculinity and democratic ideals.
Cowboys earn their living on cattle drives.
But some people pay to go on cattle drives. Americans have romantic notions about cowboys. Discuss the origins of the cowboy. Spanish cowboys descend from the Moors. Discuss the role of Spanish missions in American history and culture.