The American West (c1835-c1895): Switch to Smaller Ranches

The open range was replaced by smaller ranches that were fenced off by barbed wire.

Smaller ranches were safer than the open range for a number of reasons...

Firstly, it was easier for ranchers to keep an eye on their herds since they were in a confined space. This meant that cattle could not wander off, could be sheltered if the weather was bad, and could be fed and watered if necessary.

Secondly, it was also easier to guard smaller herds from cattle rustling or attacks.

Finally, the transition to smaller ranches reduced the supply of beef. This meant that beef prices rose and made cattle ranching profitable again.