Charles Goodnight was a prominent American cattle rancher and a key figure in the development of the cattle industry in the American West during the 19th century. Born in 1836 in Illinois, he became known for his innovative ranching techniques and for co-founding the famous Goodnight-Loving Trail, which facilitated the transportation of cattle from Texas to markets in the North. Goodnight played a significant role in the history of the Texas Panhandle and was instrumental in the establishment of the XIT Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the world at the time. His contributions to ranching and cattle drives helped shape the economy and culture of the American West.