History of Horses in the year 0829

Good morrow, my dear Equiworld readers! Emma here, a grey draught mare with a white mane and tail, writing to you from the beautiful rolling hills of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in bonnie Scotland.

As I’m sure many of you know, a horse’s life isn’t one of grand adventures and heroic exploits. It’s a life of hard work, simple pleasures, and quiet moments of reflection. And what better way to reflect than to share my thoughts on the history of horses, a topic that’s always close to my heart?

So today, I’d like to take you back to the year 829 – a rather ordinary year for most of us horses. However, when you look back through the dusty pages of history, even the most commonplace of years holds hidden treasures, don't you think?

As a horse, my days in 829 were usually filled with routine – I helped plough the fields, pulled the cart to the market, and sometimes, when the farmer was in a good mood, even got to pull his wife in a fancy carriage for a jaunt around Hayfield.

Those long, cool mornings, with the dew glistening on the grass and the air crisp and clean, were always my favourite. The smell of fresh earth as we tilled the fields and the sound of the birdsong as we trotted home in the afternoon were reminders of the beauty in simple things.

And yes, sometimes the work was hard. The days were long, and the harness did pinch now and then. But even on those days, I found comfort in the shared toil of my brethren. We were a team, all of us, each playing a crucial part in the smooth running of life on the farm.

829 saw more than just work. We horses were also deeply entwined in the fabric of society. We played a vital role in transporting goods, moving people, and yes, even in warfare.

Just last year, a small contingent of Norsemen descended upon the coast of my own country. The local chieftain raised his small army, and us horses were there, ready and willing, to gallop alongside them into battle. Thankfully, the skirmishes were small, and thankfully for the local folk, we did not suffer too many losses. However, it serves as a grim reminder that we horses have often found ourselves caught in the midst of conflicts.

Yet, war is but one aspect of our role. As I’ve often mentioned, horses are the lifeblood of trade. We transport goods to distant markets, allowing people to access a wider array of supplies and creating economic prosperity for all. The markets in 829 are teeming with activity. People bring their wares from far and wide, their horses laden with treasures of the land – grain from the north, wool from the south, fine leatherwork, handcrafted tools – the list is endless!

And the markets are not just a place for commerce, they’re a place for community. Horse and rider come together to trade, barter, gossip, and laugh. They celebrate and commiserate over a good harvest or a challenging journey, their horses always at their side, silently participating in the human dance of life.

Now, let’s talk about something close to my equine heart: our brethren throughout history! It is hard to overestimate the role horses have played in shaping the course of history. We are not mere beasts of burden. We are the steeds of warriors, the companions of kings, and the faithful partners of ordinary folk.

Here are some interesting happenings in the world of horses in 829. Remember, it was during the reign of Louis the Pious in the Carolingian Empire! He seems a good enough chap, especially considering the trouble his own sons have been causing! Oh, the drama in those courts. He even founded a number of new monasteries, perhaps you could even say they encouraged the horses to be better behaved...

Anyway, moving on to what horses were up to in 829... This year, in the Arab world, Arabian horses are beginning to become quite renowned for their strength and speed. In China, they have long been developing horses specifically for use in their magnificent army! You should see their saddles and harnesses; truly the pinnacle of horsemanship. They truly value us, these Chinese! They understand how crucial we are.

Across the continent, the horses of Europe are also thriving. They’re not only vital to agriculture and transportation but also playing a pivotal role in the expansion of knowledge and cultural exchange. You can see their impact in the travels of monks and scholars, who are riding our backs across vast distances, carrying precious books and ideas to share with the wider world.

This, dear reader, is just a small glimpse of life in 829 as viewed through a horse’s eyes. We’re not just horses. We’re companions, collaborators, and companions in this human journey through time.

But, there's more to be learned, more to discuss, and I’m sure you have some thoughts on this period in history. So please, leave your comments, share your stories, and let us continue this fascinating exploration of the history of horses.

Until next time, Emma