Lubbock native talks cowboy culture in presidential politics

The term "cowboy" can refer to a fashion, a stereotype or a lifestyle - aspects that have impacted politics. B. Bryon Price, a Lubbock native and expert in Western culture, led a discussion Jan. 15 at the National Ranching Heritage Center about cowboy culture in presidential politics. The discussion, titled "Black Hat, White Hat: The Good, The Bad and The Enduring Image," dealt with the prominent cowboy image in politics and the negative image that has been associated with cowboys. Price said the image of a tall, heroic figure in boots and a cowboy hat has been continuously present in the United States and its politics. "The cowboy image remains the most visible, resilient and controversial images associated with the president," he said. He said the image generally is used in politics in a positive way because the image often symbolizes action, masculinity and strength....

So, was Teddy Roosevelt a cowboy or a snake in the grass? I'd put him in the snake den myself, but would like to hear from them who think different.