Ranchers employed cowhands to tend their cattle and drive herds to market. These hard workers rode alongside the huge herds in good and bad weather. They kept the cattle moving and rounded up strays. After the Civil War, veterans of the Confederate Army made up the majority of the cowhands who worked in Texas. However, it is estimated that nearly one in three cowhands was either Mexican American or African American. Some cowhands dreamed of setting aside enough money to start a herd of their own.
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
Why might recent events have led to many African Americans working for ranchers?
(1 point)
Responses
During the Civil War, many African Americans went west to work on railroads.
After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.
In the 1850s, many free African Americans from the north became ranchers.
During Reconstruction, African American politicians promoted ranching.
1 answer
The best response is:
After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.
This option directly relates to the context of the passage, highlighting how the end of slavery opened up opportunities for African Americans, including working as cowhands for ranchers.
