Revealing the forgotten history of the black cowboys of the Wild West

The cowboy, often considered a symbol of the American West, actually originated during the Spanish colonial period. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century, during a period of dramatic expansion of the cattle industry, that the iconic cowboy era really began to take shape. But did you know that for every four cowboys? Is there a black person.

While iconic figures of the Old West, such as Roy Rogers and Billy the Kid, are primarily recognized as white, it is worth noting that one in four cowboys in the United States is African American. This demographic includes many individuals who, during the 17th and 18th centuries, brought their herding skills from West Africa, gaining experience in the region from their homelands. This historical context has prompted historians to ponder the origins of the term “Cowboy” and whether it was influenced by those African American slave herders.

The experiences of black cowboys were often more difficult than those of their counterparts. These black cowboys took on the difficult tasks of taming horses and leading cattle across difficult rivers. Despite the significant hardships they faced, being a black cowboy on a ranch offered a better life than enduring the harsh labor of picking cotton as a slave on a plantation. The legacy and influence of black cowboys continues to this day, represented largely by the Negro Cowboy League.

This organization was dedicated to providing inner-city youth with opportunities away from the dangers of street life by teaching them how to ride and care for horses. The essential skills learned at Cedar Lane instilled hope for a brighter future in these children, many of whom came from crime-ridden environments. Each young participant must first grasp the concepts of responsibility before they are granted riding privileges, which includes learning how to manage their own stables. The Federation Ranch is located near Queens, New York, with only a simple white fence separating the peaceful ranch life from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Unfortunately, Hollywood has largely overlooked the contributions of black cowboys, who played a significant role in shaping Western history. Notable rodeos such as William “Bill” Pickett, Stagecoach Mary, Nat Love, and Bass Reeves have emerged as some of the most notable figures in the field. Documentary filmmakers John Ferguson and Gregg MacDonald highlight this often forgotten aspect of history through their film “The Forgotten Cowboys.” They showcase contemporary black cowboys such as Jason Griffin, a four-time world bareback champion, while also reflecting on the remarkable achievements of black riders of the past.