"In 1493, Columbus brought Spanish cattle to Santa Domingo. Within 200 years their descendents were grazing the ranges of Mexico. Translating wild cattle into hard cash was an epic struggle between man, beast and the elements - from this grew the romantic legends of the Western Cowboy. ...In the quarter century following the Civil War, 10 million head were trailed north...Longhorns have ideal characteristics - they can go incredible distances without water; rustle their own food; fend for themselves; swim rivers; and survive the desert sun and winter snow..." - condensed from Longhorn History: Texas Longhorn Breeders Assoc.