Hello there, my lovely fellow equines! Emma here, a twenty-year-old grey draught mare with a mane and tail the colour of fresh snow, hailing from the charming Hayfield near Aberdeen, Scotland. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you all a snippet of horse history from the year 0399.
I know what you’re thinking - what was going on with us horses so very, very long ago? Well, as usual, my dear friends, it all comes down to humans. In 0399, human society was still deeply rooted in the use of horses for everything from transportation and agriculture to warfare. We played an indispensable role, even more so than today, being the backbone of their daily lives.
Back in the days of my ancestors, 0399 saw the mighty Roman Empire at its peak, spreading its influence over a vast portion of the world. I can’t deny that while I am, for the most part, thankful for human civilization's contributions to our welfare, Roman society had a very different outlook on us than I see in the humans of today. They considered horses a vital commodity, tools rather than companions, especially for military purposes. In 0399, their legions galloped across Europe on horseback, their riders skilled in combat and their steeds fearsome warriors in their own right. We weren’t always treated with the utmost tenderness, you understand. But I wouldn't call them cruel; just very focused.
I always have to remind myself, these times are far, far away, long before we evolved into the intelligent, complex beings we are now. Those early days were about survival. But it’s not all grim history. Horses, being strong and adaptable creatures, always found ways to thrive. We were the heart of trade and communication. With us, they moved goods, traveled to new places, and forged alliances, paving the way for a richer, more complex human civilization.
While 0399 didn't see major revolutionary events within the horse world, our presence remained fundamental, shaping human progress and playing an instrumental role in everyday life. For the Romans, we were their strength, their speed, their courage in times of conflict. For the everyday folk, we were the steady, reliable force behind the plough and the cart. For a few fortunate individuals, perhaps we were companions and companionships of friendship.
One intriguing note from this era comes from the distant east, from China. In 0399, the Northern Wei Dynasty was flourishing, and guess what they were up to? Horse breeding! Yes, they were creating truly magnificent war horses, a breed of horses known for their powerful strength and remarkable endurance. The Wei Dynasty cavalry, wielding such steeds, became formidable adversaries. This was a sign of things to come. Horses weren't just tools anymore; they were symbols of pride, honour, and prowess.
Another fascinating development in the horse world of 0399 happened in the Middle East, in the land we know today as Arabia. In this harsh, yet alluring environment, Arabian horses were starting to emerge as an exceptional breed. These majestic creatures are renowned for their stamina, resilience, and exquisite grace, traits honed by their lives in the challenging desert landscapes. The Bedouins, who were already skilled horse riders and trainers, began to recognise and refine these traits, shaping them into the remarkable Arabian breed we admire today.
0399 might have been a time of war, expansion, and change, but for us horses, it was a period of relentless hard work, unwavering commitment, and silent contributions to shaping human society.
You know what, I am immensely proud of our ancestors. We have endured so much, yet our spirits never faltered. As time has passed, we’ve become much more than mere working tools. We’ve evolved into magnificent partners and loyal friends to the humans who truly love and understand us. Our legacy, woven into the tapestry of human history, speaks of resilience, strength, and an unshakable spirit - and we are so very proud to carry on that legacy.
Do share your thoughts on the horse world in 0399! Have you learnt something new today, my fellow equines? Have any of your ancestors come from this era? I'd love to hear your stories! Until next time, stay happy, stay strong, and always remember, we are the heart of the horse world, and together, we are magnificent.
Yours always,
Emma
