A cattle rustler is a person who steals cattle, typically from ranches or farms. This illegal activity has been a significant issue in agricultural communities, especially in the American West during the 19th century. Cattle rustling often involved organized groups who would drive herds away to sell them for profit. The term is closely associated with the Wild West era, where law enforcement was limited, making it easier for rustlers to operate. Cattle rustling has been romanticized in popular culture, often depicted in movies and literature featuring cowboys and outlaws. Today, it remains a crime that can lead to severe penalties.