American Westerns discussion

Simple little question that popped into my head that I thought I'd ask to get peoples opinions. What defines a cowboy/outlaw?
Their gun? spurs? attitude? mean streak? appreciation to uphold or go against the law?
What exactly do you think it is that makes them who they are?

Justin,

The outlaw element of your question has been roaming my mind, and a not quite remembered segment of the Forrest Carter Gone to Texas tales might have some utility for you. I didn't see them, but Clint Eastwood did some movie making about Josey Wales ...

There are likely as many opinions about what constitutes a cowboy as there are readers ... but I like Elmer Kelton's cowboys best.

Gone to Texas
The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales
The Day the Cowboys Quit