Final answer:
By adding the letter 'o' to 'rode', you get 'rodeo', a term that represents a public exhibition of cowboy skills with historical roots in the Old West competitions where cowboys showcased their abilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you add a letter to "rode", you get "rodeo", which is a public exhibition of cowboy skills. These events stem from historical contests where cowboys displayed various skills such as lassoing and marksmanship. The rodeo has its origins in the Old West, with cowboys of diverse backgrounds, including African Americans like the legendary cowboy Nat Love, competing for prize money. This evolved into today's rodeos which are still a significant aspect of cowboy culture.