The idea of what we call a cowboy hat--broad brim, high crown--can be seen as far back as the 13th century Mongolian horsemen. The working cowboy of the early American West wore hats that were most likely adopted from the Mexican Vaqueros, before the invention of the modern design. That design was created in 1865 by J.B. Stetson. Stetson focused on expensive, high-quality hats that represented a real investment for the working cowboy and a statement of success for the city dweller. In the 19th century and first half of the 20th century, a cowboy hat was an indispensable item in every man’s, or cougar's, wardrobe.