Few figures occupy as prominent a niche in U.S. lore as the American cowboy, that embodiment of rugged individualism celebrated in dime novels, vintage radio, TV and Hollywood blockbusters. But the New York lawmaker is also on track: The cowboy tradition evolved in a direct line from the singular innovations of Mexican vaqueros. “The American cowboy, our great national folk hero, is recognized around the world as a symbol of our country,” the late Jim Hoy, a renowned cowboy historian, told Texas Highways magazine. Mexican American equestrians hold the ride each year to commemorate the figure from California’s gold rush era. Charreadas remain a mainstay throughout Mexico and in Mexican American communities north of the border.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 23, 2026 18:34 UTC