The commercial beef cattle industry is one of the most powerful agricultural industries in the United States of America. Since the end of the 15th century, cattle have dominated the North American continent, particularly in the United States. However, much has changed since they first arrived in America. Breeds have evolved and practices have improved. Perhaps one of the only things that hasn't changed is the hard work, time and effort that American farmers and ranchers put into caring for their livestock every day. There are approximately 89.3 million head of livestock in America and approximately 315.1 million people. This means that for every four people in the United States, there is one beef cow. Beef cattle help expand our country's relationships by providing exports. Some of our major export markets include Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea and Hong Kong (Field, Thomas G.). An in-depth study of the commercial beef cattle industry reveals an overview of the industry, production and marketing phases as well as beef products. Cattle have been a part of this world since the existence of humanity. They were used for all necessities; like food and traction force. Europeans first brought livestock to the United States by ship. Since that time, the cattle industry has played an important role in the American economy, particularly in the sale of live cattle. As stated by Thomas G. Field in Beef Production and Management Decisions Fifth Edition, on average forty-six billion dollars are presented as cash inflows each year. Nebraska, Texas, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, California, South Dakota and Missouri each generate more than $1 billion in livestock sales annually. It also takes a lot of other resources for a farmer or rancher to raise cattle... middle of paper ...... human assumptions about how beef is raised and whether or not it is healthy. Thanks to these people, the industry has become stronger and more united. There is currently, and always will be, a major need for beef. The effect of this situation is that there will always be a need for beef producers, processors and advocates. To keep livestock prices rising and continue the economic growth we are currently seeing in the United States, we will and will need highly influential advocates to ensure the world knows the facts about the commercial livestock industry. This in-depth study revealed many of these facts, including an overview of the industry, production and marketing phases, and beef products. Thanks to America's farmers and ranchers, the commercial beef cattle industry is and will continue to be a dominant agricultural industry across the United States..