Horses are magnificent creatures and they have made the world we live in today so much more advanced. With out the discovery of horses we may not be farming the way that we do today. Studies about the evolution of the horse helped shape our understanding of long-term evolution in an animal species. Horses were first domesticated in the central Eurasian steppes about 6000 years ago according to estimations. Archaeologists found early bridles dating to 4000 BC in Eastern Europe as well as antler cheek-pieces and toggles for mouth pieces north of the Black Sea. Initially, these animals were used for food but at some point their strength was directed towards being led carrying goods, ridden to help hunt game and engage in warfare, and driven to work in the fields.By 500 BC, horses and their ability to carry men great distances at a quick speed had begun making their way into legend.
In the Near East, small horses were used for pulling chariots and carrying goods. Most horse people will tell you that these Arabian horses were the first modern riding horse, although the breed’s exact origins remain a mystery. Marguerite Henry’s tale of the Godolphin Arabian in King of the Wind, highlighted the stamina, spirit, and intelligence of these horses. While some authors, such as Spencer Borden and William Ridgeway suggested that Arabians originated in Africa (Libya specifically), it is commonly believed that Arabians were developed by nomadic Bedouin people in desert environments somewhere on the Arabian peninsula. Bedouin horse breeders kept meticulous records of their horses in order to keep bloodlines pure.
In the Near East, small horses were used for pulling chariots and carrying goods. Most horse people will tell you that these Arabian horses were the first modern riding horse, although the breed’s exact origins remain a mystery. Marguerite Henry’s tale of the Godolphin Arabian in King of the Wind, highlighted the stamina, spirit, and intelligence of these horses. While some authors, such as Spencer Borden and William Ridgeway suggested that Arabians originated in Africa (Libya specifically), it is commonly believed that Arabians were developed by nomadic Bedouin people in desert environments somewhere on the Arabian peninsula. Bedouin horse breeders kept meticulous records of their horses in order to keep bloodlines pure.