List No. 013

THE COWBOY CODE

Gene Autry

1948

For 30 years from the early 1930s, thanks to a hit CBS Radio show, numerous television and film appearances, and an illustrious country music career, American entertainer Gene Autry was known as the Singing Cowboy to millions of fans. In 1948, aware that many impressionable youngsters were keen to emulate his public persona, Autry came up with, and then promoted, the Cowboy Code – a list of ten rules which, if followed, would hopefully keep his admirers on the straight and narrow.

1. The Cowboy must never shoot first, hit a smaller man, or take unfair advantage.

2. He must never go back on his word, or a trust confided in him.

3. He must always tell the truth.

4. He must be gentle with children, the elderly, and animals.

5. He must not advocate or possess racially or religiously intolerant ideas.

6. He must help people in distress.

7. He must be a good worker.

8. He must keep himself clean in thought, speech, action, and personal habits.

9. He must respect women, parents, and his nation’s laws.

10. The Cowboy is a patriot.