Barbed wire shaped the American West, but it kills, injures and blocks migrating wildlife. Some ranchers are trying high-tech alternatives that could reduce the need for it. On a list of the most ...

Few inventions that were designed in the 1870s that have not changed since they were patented, and they are still widely used in the 21st century. Barbed wire is an innovation that fits this category, ...

On a list of the most important technologies that have shaped the American West, barbed wire would have to be near the top. The sharp metal fencing transformed the open range because it divided the ...