Cowboys made about $30 per monthw, and they were the last to be allowed to have water. They worked about fifteen hours a day. At night, they had to watch over the cattle and horses, and they slept on bedrooms. During bad weather, they would steer the cattle into walking in a circle, to calm them. At times, they were attacked by cattle rustlers and Native Americans.
Ranching was a big industry and cowboys helped to run the ranches. They herded cattle, repaired fences and buildings, and took care of the horses. Cowboys often worked on cattle drives. This was when a large herd of cattle was moved from the ranch to a market place where they could be sold.
The answer is McCarthyism.
During this period, the U.S. was determine to prevent the spread of
communism in its territories.
Surveillance and warrantless arrest of suspects were rampant. Many lost their careers after being branded a
communist while others were put in jail.
Many criticized this actions as unconstitutional.