Sheep and cattle have been a part of U.S. history for centuries. They are known for their many products, such as meat, wool and milk. Sheep played an important role in the livestock industry, particularly among certain religious communities and small rural farmers. At the start of the 20th century, the sheep industry was at its peak, until 1942, when it exceeded 56.2 million head. Thereafter, they gradually declined to less than 10 million head, a record in U.S. history, at the turn of the 21st century. There are many different reasons why this industry could be decreasing in size. Over generations, what was once rural territory is devastated and urbanized by a rapidly growing population, reducing the size of farms. Ever-changing market trends could also play a role in the decline of the sheep industry. With the development of new synthetic fibers, the demand for wool has decreased. A more recent change in the market, the rise of the goat industry in the late 20th century, plays an important role in the future of the sheep and beef industries. Livestock have been a part of American history since early settlers established colonies from the Eastern Hemisphere. Today, there are countless breeds of cattle that have developed over centuries. Charolais, Limousin, and Angus cattle are some of the breeds known for their beef production in America. Holstein and Jersey cows make up the majority of milk production. It is common to find many small family farms across the country with at least one dairy cow to provide their daily milk and other products. Cattle hide can also be tanned and used to make leather products such as clothing, sports equipment and a variety of paper products......skilfully. Ultimately, there are many factors affecting the declining sheep industry. In the United States, sheep is no longer in a class of its own in terms of marketing. This new competition in recent years has certainly changed the sheep industry forever. However, market trends are constantly changing and in the coming years the number of sheep may increase again, but for now the numbers are the same, while the number of goat heads continues to increase regularly. A more recent change in the market, the rise of the goat industry in the late 20th century, also plays an important role in the future of the sheep industry. Works Cited Maday, John. “USDA Projects Growth in U.S. Livestock Production.” Drovers Cattle Network February 15, 2011: 1. Web. April 24 2011. .