Cowboy Code
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The Cowboy Code (a/k/a the Code of the West) was first chronicled in 1934. With no law existing in the early American west, the western pioneers lived by a gentlemen’s agreement to abide by certain unwritten rules of conduct that centered on hospitality, fair play, loyalty and respect for the land.
In the past 75+ years, many have tried to document this code of conduct. Below are some representative examples. |
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The Cowboy Code
A Cowboy must never shoot first, hit a smaller man, or take unfair advantage. He must never go back on his word, or a trust confided in him. He must always tell the truth. He must be gentle with children, the elderly and animals. He must not advocate or possess racially or religiously intolerant ideas. He must help people in distress. He must be a good worker. He must keep himself clean in thought, speech, action and personal habits. He must respect women, his parents and his nation’s laws. A Cowboy is a patriot. |
The Code of the West
Live each day with courage Take pride in your work Always finish what you start Do what has to be done Be tough, but fair When you make a promise, keep it Ride for the brand Talk less and say more Remember that some things aren’t for sale Know where to draw the line |