Hello there, fellow equines and horse-loving friends! It’s Emma here, a 20-year-old grey mare from Hayfield, a small village near the bustling city of Aberdeen in bonnie Scotland.
As always, it’s a joy to share my perspective on horse history with you all! It’s my passion to explore the past, and today, we'll be venturing back to the year 589 AD - a year of immense change and progress, not only for the human world, but also for the equestrian community!
Life in 589 AD – A Mare’s Viewpoint
Life in 589 AD was a world away from what we know today, my dear friends. Imagine a world where carriages were a luxury only the wealthy could afford. Where riding saddles were simple and most horses were used for plowing fields, hauling carts, or for carrying goods on long journeys.
It was in this year that I was born, on a crisp autumn morning under a clear sky. My mother, a robust black mare named Clover, was known for her strength and stamina, making her an ideal workhorse. She instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance – traits that have served me well in my life.
I learned to navigate the rough Scottish terrain alongside my brothers and sisters, training in the art of pulling ploughs and carrying heavy loads. We were fed and cared for by the kind hands of the farmers, always a reassuring presence. They understood our needs and worked hard to ensure we were happy, healthy, and ready for our daily tasks.
As a young filly, my days were filled with grazing on the lush meadows, running playfully through the fields with my companions, and learning the ropes from the older horses. These memories still bring a smile to my face, reminding me of the carefree times of youth.
A Time of Great Change – The Rise of Horse Breeding
While the primary role of horses was work in those days, something quite significant was taking place - a revolution of sorts, in the human world and, in turn, our own: horse breeding.
589 AD saw a rise in specialized breeds - horses bred for specific purposes, whether it be for speed, strength, or even a certain temperament. This meant that humans were increasingly conscious of our attributes and their own needs. It was the start of a fascinating journey for both horse and human, and I couldn’t help but sense a sense of change in the air.
From Battlefields to Racing Tracks
589 AD was a time of great political and social upheaval in many parts of Europe. From the Roman Empire’s waning grip on its provinces to the emergence of new powers, the landscape was shifting constantly. This had a profound effect on our equine community.
Horses were highly prized as companions and steeds in warfare, with breeds like the Barb and the Andalusian renowned for their courage and agility. Their roles on the battlefields are, unfortunately, intertwined with battles and conquest. Yet, this era also saw the development of sports like chariot racing, bringing out the inherent speed and athleticism in some of our kin.
The Art of Equitation
You see, in this year, a newfound appreciation for the skills and beauty of riding began to emerge, my friends. While many used us as working animals, there were a growing number of people who saw our potential for grace and movement.
This new understanding, called ‘equitation,’ gave birth to specialized training techniques. From simple commands like ‘halt’ and ‘turn’ to more complex manoeuvres, riders and horses were finding a rhythm, a shared understanding. I recall stories from elder horses, who were themselves used for hunting, who recounted how their riders were often their greatest admirers, and sometimes, even their dearest companions.
The Importance of Respect and Compassion
589 AD was a turning point for the relationship between horses and humans. It wasn’t just about utilizing our strength, it was also about learning to respect and care for us as living creatures, each with individual personalities and strengths. This awareness fostered a sense of camaraderie that I think all of us horses today are beneficiaries of.
In those days, humans saw us as more than mere working tools, and even if that connection wasn’t present for everyone, we were, overall, part of a thriving community, relied on and loved for our unique capabilities.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Standing at the dawn of the 6th century, I feel privileged to have been a part of such a pivotal period in horse history. The developments in horse breeding and equitation laid the foundation for what we know as the equestrian world today. I can only imagine what the future holds for us horses. Perhaps we'll one day have even more profound interactions with humans. Maybe there’s a day when we can learn to communicate with them directly, a day when we are cherished for more than just our utility, a day when our intelligence, strength, and resilience are understood on a deeper level.
Remember
The year 589 AD wasn't just a period of change, my dear friends, it was also a period of remarkable progress. While the challenges of the past may be far removed from our lives today, they hold lessons we can learn from. We must continue to appreciate our inherent talents and, even more so, the incredible bond between horses and humans, forged in the very essence of trust, care, and respect.
I am excited to see what the future holds, my fellow equines.
Until next time,
Emma
www.equiworld.org
