With the introduction of the horse to the Argentine pampas by the Spaniards in the early 15 hundreds the Gaucho was born. Then an independent horseman he earned his way by trading hides and tallow, at times being somewhat of an outlaw, renowned for his excellent horsemanship. This uniquely South American cowboy became a ranch hand in the early 20th century as the meat industry flourished. Although considered by many to be a thing of the past, the embodiment of virtues like honesty and a fiercely independent spirit, the Gaucho and his traditions are very much alive.