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Horse Facts

 

Horse Facts Throughout History

 

Horses have been an important part of human history for ages, and documented horse facts depict how their presence has assisted mankind in advancing progress. 

Fossils dating back millions of years show the beginning of the evolution of the horse.  Its ancient ancestor, Eohippus, was quite small at approximately two feet tall and was an herbivorous creature, feasting upon tree and bush leaves.  Over time, scientific findings show that the genus developed into larger versions as it spread across the continents and became a grass grazer instead of a leaf browser.  The genus evolved from Eohippus to Mesohippus, and then to Hyphohippus which is believed to be the horses which inhabited the Old World.  Through history, the species continued as it traveled from North America to Africa, South America and Eurasia, although the original Native American breed disappeared perhaps due to diseases. 

European history derived from cave dwelling evidence shows that horses were plentiful during the early Stone Age; undoubtedly used as a source of nourishment for the people of the time.  The number of horses in Europe dwindled during the Neolithic period, or latter Stone Age.  Later, during the Bronze Age, evidence shows that the horse became a domesticated animal, with remnants of ancient harnesses and such found during explorations.  Horses were recognized and famed in different cultures for their capabilities; for example, Spanish horses were known for speed while European horses were famed for their strength.  Breeding for specific purposes was not a recognized activity, however, until the late 17th century when the Arabian horse, facts show, was imported to England and France to merge breeds with native horses.  The horse did not reappear on North American soil until the 16th century when the Spanish conquistadors brought them in on ships. 

Improving and developing breeds over the last 300 years has resulted in major differences between breeds. There are over 250 breeds of horses now over the world, and can be broken down into classes of “bloods” to differentiate the breeds.
           
●Coldbloods

These horses are generally of large stature, gentle by nature and are utilized for working or hauling tasks.  Often called draft horses, the category includes such breeds as Clydesdale, Belgian and the Shire.  Large bodies and heads are features.

●Warmbloods

Easily trainable, warmbloods are used in competitions and equestrian sports.  These horses were the breeds used during the Old West for cattle ranching.

●Hotbloods

Horses that are known for great speed, these equines are utilized for racing.  More highly strung and excitable than other breeds, streamlined bodies exemplify this type.

Different breeds enable the species of horse to be utilized in multiple ways.  For example, the Clydesdale or Belgian breeds are well known for their strength and endurance, making them ideal work horses for farming and exhibition.  Horse facts show that, in contrast, Arabian horses are swift runners perfectly adept as racehorses, while the warmblood Palomino or Tennessee Walker are great personalities for personal mounts.   

A few horses have been instrumental in forming the shape of the world’s history, whether real or fictional. 

Bucephalus

Possibly the most famous horse facts that are documented involve the steed named Bucephalus.  In history, Bucephalus was the horse ridden by Alexander the Great through numerous battles and over thousands of cumulative miles as his empire was built.  Bucephalus began life as a wild horse which was captured and offered as a gift to Phillip II, the father of Alexander.  Unbroken, Bucephalus exhibited many characteristics that Phillip II viewed as unbalanced.   Alexander, however, saw great promise in the horse and worked gently and closely with Bucephalus until finally, the horse submitted to Alexander’s attempts to mount it.  The name “Bucephalus” was bestowed upon the horse by Alexander, who noted that the horse’s head was “as broad as a bull’s” head.  The horse accompanied the boy, who became famous as Alexander the Great, throughout battles to acquire land, treasures and servants.  Finally, in 326 BC, the horse died as a result of injuries sustained through the last battle fought by Alexander, who named a city after his beloved companion.