Watch Cattlemen to Cattlemen Week 22: Original Air Date July 3, 2007:

For this Independence Day holiday week, NCBA brings you a special episode of Cattlemen to Cattlemen:

Cattlemen and Cowboys...a History provides a look back at the role the cattle industry played in the settlement and development of the United States.

The program is narrated by legendary actor John Wayne. Wayne's long acting career was built in large part of western movies that created the image many Americans still hold of the cattle business. But this program is designed to go beyond the myths and images of cowboy movies, and show viewers how the U.S. cattle industry was really built. 

You'll learn about Spanish settlers bringing cattle into what is now the western United States back in the 1500s, and the arrival of the first English-breed cattle in 1624. Texas' independence from Mexico and eventual annexation by the United States was also a watershed event in the development of America's cattle industry. By 1860, Texas was home to over 3.5 million cattle, and thousands of settlers who came to Texas to raise them.

This program profiles the cattle barons who financed America's first great ranches, as well as the cowboys who tended, worked and drove their cattle herds. See how a successful cattle industry contributed to the westward expansion of the United States, and the introduction and development of various breeds of cattle.

You will also learn how cattlemen adapted to the changing economic and political landscape of the United States -- including the formation of the first national cattlemen's association in 1898. Known today as the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, this organization and its state affiliates have provided cattlemen with a common voice on issues affecting their industry and livelihood for almost 110 years.

Modern cattle feeding, as well as advances in beef processing and transportation, have all dramatically changed the look of today's cattle industry. But the business is still grounded on the principles of hard work, entrepreneurship, and opportunity. So sit back and enjoy Cattlemen and Cowboys...a History, for a fascinating look at the how the industry we are all so proud to be a part of was created.

If you would like to own a copy of Cattlemen and Cowboys...a History, please visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org to purchase the DVD. Proceeds from each sale directly benefit the important work of the National Cattlemen’s Foundation.