Pronunciation: [ɹˈe͡ɪnd͡ʒ wˈɔː] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "range war" follows the standard English phonetic rules. The first syllable "range" is pronounced as /reɪndʒ/, with a long "a" sound and the "g" pronounced as /dʒ/. The second syllable "war" is pronounced as /wɔːr/, with a silent "e" and the "a" pronounced as /ɔː/. "Range war" refers to violent conflicts between cattle ranchers and farmers who wished to use the same land for grazing or crops.
A "range war" refers to a violent conflict or feud primarily occurring in the American West during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This agricultural term describes intense disputes between cattle ranchers, sheep ranchers, homesteaders, or other groups engaged in the livestock industry, over access to and control of grazing lands, water rights, or other natural resources. These conflicts often arose due to conflicting interests and incompatible land usage practices.
In a range war, tensions can elevate to armed confrontations, with rival groups engaging in open hostilities, including skirmishes, raids, and acts of destruction, across a disputed territory. These disputes were fueled by economic competition, scarcity of resources, and cultural differences.
The range wars were characterized by efforts to gain dominance and protect one's economic interests within the ranching community. Major range war conflicts, such as the Lincoln County War and the Johnson County War, were well-known examples where large-scale violence erupted, resulting in casualties and significant property damage.
The resolution of range wars often required government intervention, typically in the form of military troops or law enforcement agencies, to restore peace and enforce property rights. In some cases, court rulings or legislation were necessary to delineate property boundaries, grazing rights, and regulate land use, in an attempt to prevent further disputes.
Overall, range wars represent a chapter in American history, illustrating the complex and tumultuous dynamics of land use conflicts, competition, and the struggle for control of resources.
The term "range war" originated in the United States during the 19th century and was specifically associated with conflicts over land and livestock between cattle ranchers and farmers or sheepherders. The word "range" refers to unenclosed or open grasslands used for grazing livestock, while "war" implies a violent and prolonged conflict.
The etymology of "range war" is relatively straightforward, with both words having clear origins. The word "range" is derived from the Old French word "reng", meaning "row" or "line". It entered Middle English as "raunge", referring to a row or line of things. Over time, it acquired the specific meaning of an open area of land used for grazing purposes.
The word "war" traces back to Old English as "wyrre" or "werre", which denotes a state of conflict or hostilities between different groups or nations.
