Friday, February 27, 2009

Icon of the American West: The American Cowboy Hat

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.

For many people today the image of the old west is full of ideals that are still held dear. Few things are more American than the stories of hard working cowboys, moving out west to build better lives for their families. The premise of the American dream strikes a chord for so many. Thus we find ourselves a long standing cultural attachment to this iconic fashion item.

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.

Even beyond our history, the American cowboy hat is an icon for the those old fashion values that still drives our country. United States citizens are known for taking pride in thier sense of hard work. Cowboys in the old west worked in difficlut conditions and had to earn everything they had. It was often a dirty and dagnerous job. But it was an honest living. These continue to be highly regarded values to most people in our nation today. That's why anyone from pop music stars, to senators, to Joe Sixpack can all find common ground in choosing to wear a cowboy hat. It is an iconic symbol that stands for many of the goods things about our nation.

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.

All around the world America represents a land of opportunity. From the time of the gold rush of the 1800's, people have moved westward to seek their fortune and a chance to grab their piece of the American dream. This time period marks the point in history where the American cowboy hat gained popularity in fashion. It is little surprise then that it has become an image of the both national and personal prosperity that has driven so many people from around the world dream of coming to America.

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.

No matter how much this nation changes, it will still be a reminder of the qualities that we hold dear. It can be wild and tough, or sophisticated, and more than anything it is a timeless symbol of a nation that forever changed the world. The American cowboy hat is likely to always be a popular fashion item. - 15615

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