In the text, you read this about ranching after the Civil War:

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.

Use the passage to answer the question.

Why might recent events have led to many African Americans working for ranchers?

(1 point)
Responses

1. After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.

2. In the 1850s, many free African Americans from the north became ranchers.

3. During Reconstruction, African American politicians promoted ranching.

After the Civil War, many African Americans were seeking new work opportunities and ranching provided employment for them. The end of slavery meant they could move freely and pursue jobs in different industries. Additionally, some African American cowhands may have been drawn to ranching as a way to eventually start their own herd and achieve economic independence.

choose one of the provided answers

1. After the end of slavery, African Americans could move and find new work.