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.
Why might recent events have led to many African Americans working for ranchers?
A.
During the Civil War, many African Americans went west to work on railroads.
B.
After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.
C.
In the 1850s, many free African Americans from the north became ranchers.
D.
During Reconstruction, African American politicians promoted ranching.
I think that the answer is b.
the answer is b: After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.
The correct answer is B. After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.
Recent events, in this case, refer to the end of slavery and the abolition of the Confederate Army after the Civil War. With the abolition of slavery, African Americans were no longer bound to work on plantations. This newfound freedom allowed them to seek new opportunities and employment in various industries, including ranching. Many African Americans migrated to the Western states, such as Texas, in search of work and better economic prospects. As a result, it is estimated that nearly one in three cowhands working in Texas after the Civil War were African American.