High Horse: New Docuseries Reclaims the Lost History of the Black Cowboy

A new documentary series is challenging a foundational piece of American mythology. High Horse: The Black Cowboy premieres on Peacock this November. The project explores the erased legacy of Black riders and pioneers.

Produced by Jordan Peele, the series argues this historical omission is significant. It connects the cowboy’s cultural image to deeper issues of land and identity.

Deconstructing the John Wayne Myth

The docuseries begins by tackling the word “cowboy” itself. It traces the term’s racially charged origins. The first episode shows how popular culture whitewashed the Western narrative.

According to Reuters, Black cowboys were historically numerous on the Western frontier. The series uses re-enactments and expert interviews to make this case. It also features analysis from cultural figures, including Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles.

This chapter is the most engaging of the three. It smartly deconstructs films like Lethal Weapon as modern Westerns. The analysis is both fun and intellectually sharp.

Connecting Land, Legacy, and Loss

The second episode, titled “Land,” broadens the scope dramatically. It moves from cultural erasure to physical displacement. The series links the myth of the Black cowboy to the real history of Black land ownership.

It details how Black communities were pushed out of Western spaces. The documentary references the Tulsa Massacre and lesser-known Black towns. It connects these historical injustices to modern struggles faced by Black farmers and ranchers.

This segment gives the series its gravitas. It proves the topic is far from a trivial pop culture debate. The fight for land and legacy is shown as ongoing.

The final chapter focuses on the modern “Take-Back Era.” It highlights contemporary reclamation of country music and Western spaces. The series ends on a cautious but hopeful note for continued progress.

The three-part series makes a compelling, full-circle argument. High Horse: The Black Cowboy successfully reframes a key piece of American history. It is a vital step in correcting a long-standing cultural blind spot.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main focus of the High Horse docuseries?

The series focuses on the erased history of the Black cowboy in America. It explores their significant contributions to Western expansion. The documentary also connects this cultural omission to broader issues of land and identity.

Who is involved in producing the documentary?

Jordan Peele is a key producer and featured talking head. The director is Jason Perez. The documentary also includes insights from academics, journalists, and contemporary cowboys.

How many episodes are in the series?

The docuseries consists of three episodes. Each episode runs for just over 40 minutes. The total runtime is approximately two hours.

Where and when can viewers watch it?

High Horse: The Black Cowboy premieres on November 20. It will be available for streaming exclusively on Peacock. No linear television broadcast has been announced.

Does the series cover modern examples?

Yes, it discusses modern reclamation of Western culture. This includes the impact of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album. It also profiles groups like the Compton Cowboys.