The Cowboy Encyclopedia

About this book

With 450 broad-ranging entries The Cowboy Encyclopedia is an informative comprehensive and entertaining reference to the history and culture of cowboys. From Clint Eastwood cattle drives Buffalo Bill Cody and outlaws to John Wayne rodeos roundups and the Cisco Kid Richard W. Slattas The Cowboy Encyclopedia is a one-of-a-kind reference to the people places equipment and dress historical events terminology and cultural imagery surrounding the cowboys of both North and South America. Extensively cross-referenced and expertly researched The Cowboy Encyclopedia is a must for the serious student of cowboy life and Western Americana as well as an enjoyable treat for the armchair cowboy. In this fascinating volume myth and reality come together to provide a detailed exploration into how and why the romantic cowboy image came into being. Through numerous topical entries that study the role of cowboys in art literature and film to briefer subject entries focusing on cowboy terminology readers can take away an insightful and broad perspective of the cowboy culture and its powerful influence over Americas vision of the Western frontier. Best Reference Source 1994 Library Journal Outstanding Reference Sources 1995 RASD American Library Association