History of Horses in the year 0028

Good morning, fellow equestrians! It’s Emma here, your favourite grey draught mare with a penchant for history, and I’m back with another exciting journey through the world of horses! Today we’re diving into a particularly fascinating year - 0028. That’s right, friends, we’re heading back to the early days of the Roman Empire!

Now, you may be thinking, “Emma, surely there isn’t much to write about horses in 0028, a year before the supposed birth of Jesus.” You’d be surprised! It’s in this era that horses truly start to weave themselves into the fabric of civilisation as we know it.

So, settle in with a cup of steaming barley tea, put on your favourite warm blanket, and let’s trot back in time together, shall we?

As always, we must begin in my humble home - Hayfield, nestled near Aberdeen, in the rolling hills of Scotland. We’ve had some chilly weather lately, with the wind whipping through the brambles and frost clinging to the tips of the grasses, but it’s all a part of life up here. Even when the days grow short, and the wind whistles around the stables, our human friends are kind enough to keep us warm with thick blankets and plenty of hay. They truly are the best!

But don’t let me get carried away with my idyllic life! While we in the North are enjoying the comforts of our cosy stables, there’s a whirlwind of activity down south, in the heart of the Roman Empire.

The Romans, those great conquerors with their impeccable discipline and remarkable advancements, have embraced the horse like never before. In fact, the horse is a key component to their entire way of life!

Their legionaries - the mighty soldiers responsible for building and protecting the empire - rely on these powerful animals for transport, speed, and strength. Imagine those imposing lines of soldiers marching across vast lands, with their powerful war steeds pacing alongside them. Quite a sight, don’t you think?

Horses are more than just transportation in Roman society; they are symbols of power and status as well. Imagine this, the Roman elite strutting their stuff in magnificent chariots, pulling by gleaming, well-trained steeds. Their rich fabric tapestries and shimmering armor add a touch of regal elegance to these awe-inspiring rides.

And let’s not forget the Roman cavalry! Imagine those expert horsemen dashing through the battlefield, skillfully weaving in and out, raining down a flurry of arrows and spears with their unyielding courage and expert horsemanship. The sight of the Roman cavalry charging across a plain must have been enough to send chills down the spine of even the most valiant enemies!

The Roman military success is inseparable from the use of the horse. Horses are key to conquering, transporting supplies, and delivering swift messages. They’re practically an extension of the Roman empire itself!

And how are the Romans so good with horses? Well, they’ve developed a sophisticated system of breeding and training.

The Roman military even has specialist units of horsemen whose job it is to ensure their horses are trained to perfection. They dedicate their lives to perfecting these skills, developing clever training techniques and creating a deep bond with their equine companions.

Can you imagine having that much expertise and connection with your horse? Imagine a soldier relying on their steed with the trust of a friend, sharing a special understanding. These horses are their partners in war, and in a sense, they’re part of their extended family!

And their training is meticulous! Not just focusing on obedience and power but on maneuvering, stamina, and precision. Think about the kind of coordination these soldiers develop, a symphony of movements and instincts that seamlessly integrate horse and rider! It’s nothing short of breathtaking!

Of course, horses aren’t just for soldiers. They’ve become a cultural touchstone across the Roman world. Just imagine watching these powerful creatures race around the racetracks in a blur of dust and hooves, as spectators roar and cheer for their favoured stallions. The adrenaline! The thrill! The pure joy of it all!

Beyond entertainment, the horse also represents elegance and sophistication among the wealthy Roman citizens. You’d often find their grand estates boasting a collection of fine horses, each a testament to their status and wealth. It’s as if a well-bred, gleaming horse becomes a trophy of success!

Even emperors like Augustus, who you may remember from last week’s blog post, understand the importance of horses! They use them in ceremonies and parades, showcasing their power and majesty. Can you picture them, adorned in flowing robes, riding on their magnificent steeds through the streets of Rome? A picture of regal splendor!

The Roman Empire’s success in military, economy, and social standing are undeniably intertwined with the horse. They've not only conquered vast lands but also created a thriving horse industry! It's incredible to see how the Roman love for horses, combined with their relentless pursuit of innovation and skill, shaped a world where these magnificent animals become a part of the empire's soul.

And guess what, friends? This fascination with horses doesn't stop in Rome. It’s spreading across Europe like wildfire! Their breeding and training techniques are being adopted by many other kingdoms, leading to a new era of skilled horsemen and high-quality equines. The Romans' love for the horse has sparked a wave of progress, inspiring others to recognise and nurture the beauty and power of this amazing animal.

It truly is remarkable how this small, humble horse from Hayfield has managed to weave its way through history and into the lives of people across the globe! Isn't it fascinating, my friends, how these magnificent creatures can be symbols of strength, status, power, and, above all, sheer joy?

Until next week, keep trotting, and always remember, there's a magical world of equine adventure just waiting to be explored!

Emma, the Grey Draught with a White Mane and Tail, Hayfield, Scotland www.equiworld.org