Neigh-hoo, fellow equines! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey draught mare from Hayfield, just outside of lovely Aberdeen, Scotland. I’m so excited to welcome you to this week’s History Blog! Today, we're going to travel back in time, right back to the year 0228 AD - and I’m telling you, it's going to be a ride!
Now, the year 0228 wasn’t the most exciting time in horse history. Think about it: our ancestors were all about working hard and ploughing the fields - not quite the "neighbourhood party" I'd hoped to see in the year 228!
But, let’s dive into it, shall we? Here's what we know about the year of the horse in 0228 AD, all through the lens of yours truly, a fellow farm girl who loves history as much as she loves a good, crunchy carrot!
The Horse in Roman Times: A Backbone of the Empire
Now, picture this: 0228, the Roman Empire is at its peak. They are a powerhouse, spanning from the borders of what we call Scotland to Egypt and parts of the Middle East - an incredible feat achieved in large part by their army - and horses!
My Roman brethren were an essential part of life. They were a symbol of strength and power. From heavy hauling, transportation, and carrying supplies to serving in the military, these steeds played an enormous role.
Can you imagine being responsible for the entire transportation system of an empire? Imagine carrying soldiers on your back as they march on their quest to conquer or defend? These Roman horses were truly the backbone of the Empire.
But 0228 wasn't only about the Romans and their army. Our ancestors in other parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, lived very different lives - but all relied on horses in one way or another.
Horses for Work, Not for Show
For my fellow equine friends outside the Roman empire in the year 0228, it was pretty simple: work hard, pull your weight and maybe have some oats at the end of a long day.
Our lives centered around survival - helping our families grow their food, hauling heavy burdens, or acting as the trusted companions of travellers across treacherous terrains. There wasn’t time for showing off!
However, you’d be surprised by the range of skills needed from our equine forebears:
* Some of our cousins hauled huge, lumbering carts over rocky hills and valleys, their backs strained to their limits.
* Others toiled the land, patiently pulling ploughs and creating furrows for planting, their hooves working in unison, transforming barren ground into fertile fields.
* Others, even stronger still, hauled ships across beaches - their tireless effort bringing trade to our human companions, allowing them to build more comfortable and thriving societies.
This may not sound like the most glamorous lifestyle for us horses, but it was the only way life was lived back then - the way of survival.
*How we’ve Evolved! *
But I like to think things are changing! While 0228 wasn't necessarily about galloping into the sunset with rainbows and unicorns (believe me, those came much, much later!), it was about building a foundation, laying the groundwork for us horses to play more diverse roles in the lives of our human companions.
For centuries, horses served as tools - and they still do, of course - but you know what? In this very era we are beginning to see a shift in perspective. The human world began to appreciate horses for what they really are – not just working tools but also companionable, loyal creatures.
We see early signs of this in 0228. Imagine, for instance, those travelling traders and merchants who are building their businesses across great distances - the connection between their loyal horse and their journey must have been incredible! This relationship formed the cornerstone of future equine roles - a foundation of trust, loyalty, and partnership.
You can also picture the farmer’s child, young and strong, who would often help their parents care for the horses, feeding, brushing, and learning their special needs. In those tender interactions, we already see the seeds of compassion, love, and respect sown between humans and their steeds!
Even back in the year 0228, we can sense the first whispers of something much bigger; something beyond the necessities of everyday life - the beginnings of our special bonds with humankind.
*Some Reflections for 0228: *
While our ancestors didn't ride in magnificent castles or race for gold medals back then, the year 0228 is pivotal. Without this humble, hardworking period in history, we wouldn’t be enjoying the benefits of companionship and appreciation today.
We have a lot to be thankful for when we look back at our equine ancestry. And in my humble opinion, 0228 - while simple and hardworking - was a truly important step towards becoming the revered animals we are today!
Next week, we're going to travel forward in time a bit. Join me then as we talk about the early forms of horseshowing, dressage, and some interesting (and maybe even funny) stories about what it was like for a horse to compete in a tournament! Until next time! Stay Neigh-hoo-tastic!
Your galloping blogger,
Emma
