A Comparison of the Value of the Horse in the Cowboy Era and Modern Times

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Kari J. Hoebing.
Dr. Charlie Apter, Faculty Mentor.

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Domestication of horses made this species a valuable asset in early human society. More recently, horses played a significant role during the Cowboy Era, a time of great economic growth. Over the past fifty years, the horse’s role has evolved from that of a human tool to that of a great companion who can provide help when necessary. The ratio of help to friendship has reversed in that companionship now outweighs the utile value of the horse. This evolution in our perception of horses sparked changes in the treatment of horses that is evident when contrasting artwork from the cowboy era and modern times. By studying some of these works and elements of history, the change in perceived value of horses between the cowboy era and the present will be demonstrated. This research will illustrate how the value placed on the horse has changed throughout the past several decades.