• 6"x 8" image size (8"x 10" paper size) / 200 prints / 11"x 14" matting size
• Original available

Cattle are widely distributed throughout the world. They are of great importance because of the meat, milk, leather, and other items they yield. European cattle probably were first domesticated in southeastern Europe about 8500 years ago. The Brahman cattle were domesticated in southern Asia about the same time. Records indicate that cattle were used for draft, milk, sacrifice,and, in some instances, for meat and sport. Some of these early uses continue in modified forms today, such as bullfighting.

The concept and formulation of modern breeds of cattle began in England, in Europe, and on the Channel Islands during the mid-1800s. Most modern breeds were formed in the late 19th century. Today about 274 recognized breeds exist along with many others that have not attained breed status.

Dairy cattle have been developed primarily to produce milk. The major breeds show distinctive characteristics that are used for identification. Dairy farming was formerly confined to the spring and summer months, when pasturage was plentiful. Many of the nutrients taken from the soil by crops may be replaced by the supply of manure provided by the dairy herd.

Beef cattle have been bred for the production of meat and some to adapt to special conditions. Exotic breeds have been imported for crossing with major American breeds to increase the size and milking ability of the crossbred offspring. The Santa Gertrudis, developed in Texas from crossbreeding the Brahman and Shorthorn breeds, were selected and adapted to the arid region where they originated. Dual-purpose breeds have been selected for both meat and milk production. Many of the animals classified as either dairy or beef breed, particularly those of continental Europe, could alternatively be classified as dual-purpose breeds.