When were cattle trails established to bring Texas cattle to market?

The correct choice highlights the period when cattle trails were first established to facilitate the large-scale movement of cattle from Texas to markets, primarily in the Midwest and on the eastern side of the United States. This development occurred in the years leading up to and during the era of the American Civil War, particularly in the 1850s.

Cattle drives became a significant economic activity as ranchers in Texas sought to capitalize on the growing demand for beef in the eastern markets, which coincided with the expansion of railroads. The establishment of trails, such as the Chisholm Trail and the Goodnight-Loving Trail, allowed for the organized movement of thousands of cattle over long distances. This movement was crucial in shaping the cattle industry and is a hallmark of Western expansion history.

Other time periods mentioned in the options do not align with the origin of these cattle trails, as they referenced different social and economic contexts either focused on the aftermath of the Civil War, the Gold Rush, or developments much later in the 20th century, which did not see the establishment of the original cattle trails.