Why did the cattle population increase while the American bison population dwindled in the 1800s?

The increase in the cattle population during the 1800s, in contrast to the decline of the American bison, can be attributed significantly to the protection cattle received from private property rights. As ranching became more established in the U.S., particularly in the West, land was often fenced and claimed for cattle ranching. This legal ownership provided ranchers with the ability to manage and protect their herds effectively, leading to more systematic breeding and care.

In contrast, the bison largely roamed on public lands without any formal recognition of ownership or use rights. This lack of protection made them vulnerable to unrestricted hunting and exploitation. As bison were hunted for their meat, hides, and other resources, their numbers plummeted dramatically. Thus, the institutional framework supporting cattle through property rights was a crucial factor that enabled their population to grow while the bison faced exploitation and habitat loss.