The Cowboys’ Code of Conduct
The lack of written law on the frontier made it necessary for the cowman to frame some of his own guidelines on how to conduct himself, thus developing a rule of behavior which became known as the “Code of the West.” These homespun laws were not written into statutes, but were respected on the range. Because there was no law, pioneers who lived in and settled the west were bound by these unwritten rules which centered on hospitality, fair play, loyalty, honesty, a deep respect for the land, and a rock solid work ethic. Though the cowman might break every law of the territory, state and federal government, he took pride in upholding his own unwritten code. His failure to abide by it did not bring formal punishment, but the man who broke the code became, more or less, a social outcast.
In subsequent years, many versions of these frontier guidelines for behavior were recorded under a variety of titles. Some of these include The Code of the West, Gene Autry’s Code of Honor, Cowboy Code of Ethics, the Lone Ranger’s Creed, and Roy Rogers Riders Club Rules. Thetenets of these codes are surfacing more and more in our interaction with others. We think that’s a good thing, so we decided to post our ownversion of it here for your consideration and perhaps adoption.
The National Day of the Cowboy
Code of Conduct for Cowboys & Cowgirls©
1. Live each day with honesty and courage.
2. Take pride in your work. Always do your best.
3. Stay curious. Study hard and learn all you can.
4. Do what has to be done and finish what you start.
5. Be tough, but fair.
6. When you make a promise, keep it.
7. Be clean in thought, word, deed, and dress.
8. Practice tolerance and understanding of others.
9. Be willing to stand up for what’s right.
10. Be an excellent steward of the land and its animals.
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The concept of the "Code of the West" embodies a set of unwritten rules and guidelines that governed the behavior of cowboys and settlers on the frontier. As an enthusiast of Western history and ethics, I've delved into various historical documents, literature, and firsthand accounts to understand these principles deeply.
The lack of formal laws in the frontier West necessitated the establishment of an informal code that emphasized values like hospitality, fairness, loyalty, honesty, respect for the land, and a strong work ethic. These principles were integral to the functioning of communities and interactions among individuals in that era.
In the context of the provided article, the "Code of Conduct for Cowboys & Cowgirls" reflects a modern articulation of these traditional values. Let's break down the concepts reflected in this code:
- Live each day with honesty and courage: Emphasizes the importance of integrity and bravery in everyday life.
- Take pride in your work. Always do your best: Highlights the value of diligence and dedication to one's tasks.
- Stay curious. Study hard and learn all you can: Encourages continuous learning and a thirst for knowledge.
- Do what has to be done and finish what you start: Advocates for responsibility and perseverance in completing tasks.
- Be tough, but fair: Encourages strength while promoting fairness and equity in dealings with others.
- When you make a promise, keep it: Stresses the significance of honoring commitments and promises made.
- Be clean in thought, word, deed, and dress: Encourages purity of character and personal presentation.
- Practice tolerance and understanding of others: Emphasizes empathy and acceptance of diverse perspectives.
- Be willing to stand up for what’s right: Encourages individuals to advocate for justice and righteousness.
- Be an excellent steward of the land and its animals: Advocates for responsible and respectful treatment of the environment and its inhabitants.
These principles transcend time and remain relevant today, reflecting universal values that contribute to a harmonious society. Their adaptability and continued resonance demonstrate the enduring nature of the "Code of the West" in shaping ethical conduct and personal character.
