SafeMailServices.com

Saturday, March 7, 2009

The American Cowboy Hat - Icon of the Old West

By Keith Walker

There is no look that represents the tradition of America more than the American cowboy hat. Although the various styles of hats have changed throughout the years, the popularity of the cowboy hat never seems to waver. Few objects hold such symbolism for any other culture. It is probable that the cowboy hat will continue to be a powerful symbol and popular fashion since it represents so many qualities of the American spirit.

The reason for our attachment to the fashion, and in particular the hats, of the old west is that many Americans still feel that the values prized back then are still a part of our culture today. Nothing is more American than the stories of cowboys, moving out west to seek a better life. It is a story of the American dream that strikes home with many.

The period known as Manifest Destiny is an important part of American history. The American cowboy hat is a symbol that reminds us of that time. Seeing it's image we remember our past, a time when courageous men and women who set out to move west, tame the frontier lands and create the nation we love today.

More than our history, the American cowboy hat has also become an icon for the values that drive our nation still today. The people of the United States still pride themselves on a sense of hard work. Few jobs are tougher than that of the cowboys in the old west. It was a job that could be dirty, dangerous and tiresome, but it was also making a wholesome and honest living. This is still an important aspect to many people of our culture today. That is why it is fashion that is still worn by anyone from music stars to politicians. It is an iconic symbol that represents an undying national spirit.

Americans also take pride in the strength of our worldwide presence. Few images embody this spirit and boldness more than the old west. It's easy to see why some of our populart icons have been actors from the big screen western movies, like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood. In that same spirit the cowboy hats worn by these legends have become symbolic of our tough and gritty American culture.

America is seen as a land of opportunity for many people around the world. Beginning with the gold rush of the 1800's, people have wanted to move west to seek their fortune and a build a better life. This is when the American cowboy hat became popular. It's no surprise that it is an image of both the national and personal prosperity that has brought so many people from around the world seeking their own American dream.

It is no wonder that since our young nation, relative to the rest of the world, latches on to such a symbolic piece of apparel. Even though technology has come about and changed our nation for the better, eliminating the American cowboy of the past, it has ingrained an image that America clings to. While our culture has changed, the American cowboy hat has still found a place today.

The American cowboy hat will always be a popular fashion. No matter how much the country changes, it will always be a reminder of the qualities that created a nation and forever changed the world. It is wild and tough, it is cultured and dignified, and more than anything it is a symbol for the nation from yesterday, today and tomorrow.

About the Author:

No comments: