Rodeo was designated the official state sport of Texas in 1997. Rodeos grew from informal competition among cowboys during the annual roundup and branding of cattle (see Texas Longhorn). Today rodeos have standardized events such as bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, calf roping and bull riding.

Chief Seattle, 1852:

"What will happen when the buffalo are all slaughtered? The wild horses tamed? What will happen when the secret corners of the forest are heavy with the scent of many men and the view of the ripe hills is blotted by talking wires? Where will the thicket be? Gone! Where will the eagle be? Gone! And what is it to say goodbye to the swift pony and the hunt? The end of living and the beginning of survival."

Source:

Links:

Dude Ranches and Rodeos: Official Site of Texas Tourism
Abut the Rodeo - Friends of Rodeo
Wild Horses: U of Texas at Austin
National Wild Horse & Burro Program: Bureau of Land Mgmt.
Wild Horses and Burros: Kickin' Back Ranch
Horseback rider journeys across America: BLM
Rodeo Video Clips: Kitsap County Rodeo
Cultural Symbols - 50 states