Rodeo is a competitive equestrian sport that originated from the working practices of cattle herding in Spain and Mexico. The activity expanded throughout the Americas and into other nations, evolving from the practical skills required by vaqueros and cowboys in regions such as northern Mexico, the western United States, and western Canada.
Modern rodeos are sporting events designed to test the speed and skill of cowboys and cowgirls using horses and other livestock. Professional competitions typically include timed events like tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, as well as rough stock events such as saddle bronc riding, bareback bronc riding, and bull riding.
While specific events can vary by region or sanctioning organization—sometimes including goat tying or pole bending—the sport's public history dates back to the late 19th century. The first public cowboy contest is recorded as having taken place on July 4, 1883, in Pecos, Texas.