human
What is the history of the cowboy hat?
assistant
The cowboy hat has a long and colorful history. It was first worn by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, who wore it to protect themselves from sun and rain while exploring the American West. In the late 1800s, cowboys began wearing the hats as part of their traditional dress, and they quickly became popular among settlers in the United States. During this time, cowboy hats also gained popularity with the general public, and were often seen on people attending rodeos and other Western events. By the mid-1900s, cowboy hats had become a symbol of the American West and its culture. Today, cowboy hats are still widely worn by people across the world, including celebrities such as John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Johnny Depp.