Neigh Neigh everyone, it's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey mare! Just popping in to EquiWorld with a brand new blog post for your reading pleasure. This week, I'm going back in time to the year 0435, a bit of a trek for a lady like me! I'm feeling very historical right now, so do saddle up and let me take you on a ride through the fascinating world of horses back in the 5th century AD.
Now, you might think the world of horses was pretty tame in those days. Imagine my surprise, darling! There was so much going on - the world was alive with the spirit of the horse. It was like the start of something special. As a grey mare with a white mane and tail, I felt I had a rather fine role to play, particularly here in my homeland of Hayfield near Aberdeen.
Here in the year 0435, I was part of a community of hardy workhorses, strong and sturdy, used to the harsh conditions of northern Scotland. While it might seem quaint now, we were all vital for farming and for helping to build our settlements. Just think, every brick for our little stone houses, every furrow ploughed, and every cart load of oats – that was all thanks to us lovely horses! We even helped to haul in logs for fuel. We were essential members of the family.
My own story was one of the typical hard work, but there was beauty to be found even in the routine. We horses weren't just brawn, you know, we also had our share of heart and passion! Imagine: we galloped across rolling heather hills in the crisp Scottish air, a feeling of freedom like nothing else.
Back in 0435, I remember a grand event at our nearby village. The annual Highland Games! Can you imagine all those strong men and women competing for glory in races and competitions, their loyal steeds beside them? They were using the best of their talents, and we were a crucial part of the whole performance, and the spectators were just as excited as the athletes! I was a little too old to take part myself, but the sheer atmosphere was electrifying! We horses were right at the heart of it all.
It wasn’t all games, though. There were serious matters afoot as well. Around 0435, we saw Roman influence fading away, and the local Scottish chiefs began to make their presence known. There was a constant threat from Viking raiders, always lurking in the shadows. But in all the unrest, we horses remained, stalwart, loyal, and reliable. We provided a much-needed sense of stability.
That's the thing, isn’t it? Our strength and reliability made us so important back then. You could count on a horse to pull their weight. We were integral to society and often helped bring people together, sharing news, ideas and even sometimes acting as couriers! I often think it was a time when humans relied more on horses, more than perhaps at any other time in history. I wonder if they appreciated us as much as I appreciated them?
Looking at the world beyond our Scottish borders...
Back in the year 0435, it was all happening in the world of horses! The Roman Empire had officially fallen. Yes, I said “fallen”. After hundreds of years of dominance, this incredible civilisation had gone, leaving behind a power vacuum for others to fill. But guess who was waiting in the wings to seize this new world? You got it – the magnificent horse!
What do I mean by that? Well, the horse was a fundamental part of how these newly powerful empires developed, you see. You know how important we are in warfare? You could imagine, back then, without horses there wouldn't be any efficient transport of armies! They were critical for moving people, equipment, and supplies, and even for carrying the mail! Horses literally built empires. Imagine the impact that would have had. I often ponder the roles we played, right back then, and what influence our role had in shaping the future of human civilisation!
I'm sure you've heard of the Franks, haven't you? Well, they were gaining power on the European mainland. And the horse was their key ally in conquering territories! This incredible horse was crucial for developing military strength and spreading their influence! You might be interested to know, it was during the 5th century that the "Franks" started becoming famous. They used their riding skills to gain territory and defeat their rivals, making the horse even more valuable. It's fascinating, isn't it, the influence a simple horse can have!
Of course, that's not all that happened in 0435! Horses were helping shape life in China as well. The Eastern Jin dynasty was flourishing, and the use of horses for farming and transport continued to blossom there too. And you know, all the way across the Mediterranean, the Byzantine Empire, in what we call Turkey today, was beginning its long and fascinating history! And of course, the horse played a key part in all of this!
Let's have a little think, dear readers...
What was happening with our horse-friends all across the world in 0435? You see, despite the power shifts and battles, it was in that year that something amazing happened. The spirit of the horse soared, and they spread throughout the world in more and more roles. Our strength was appreciated. Our loyalty recognised. And the love that many people had for their horse-companions bloomed. You might say, horses really were in the spotlight.
This wasn’t a new thing. Think about it, the connection between humans and horses goes right back to ancient times.
How's this for a story: Back in Ancient Egypt, around 1500 BC, some really important folks started putting their trust in the horse as the central ingredient in building successful armies! I imagine they rode them around in chariot races too, what a thrill that must have been! That connection between horses and humans in Ancient Egypt had a lasting influence, it had an impact on the whole world of horses, wouldn't you agree?
My story's still to be told!
This brings me to my own little world, Hayfield, a lovely spot in northern Scotland. We were quite isolated, as you might expect. We weren’t involved in major battles and didn't travel all across Europe, no. But we had our own role to play in shaping our lives and building our community. It was the day-to-day that mattered, the everyday reliance we offered. Every task we did helped to bring people together and kept everyone fed, warm and safe. We weren't in the spotlight of world history but, we were there, you see, a silent but essential force behind what was happening in the world, making sure everyone had the best chance of a good life.
Now, let's face it. Every day's an adventure for us horses, even if we aren’t involved in something monumental! In fact, 0435, was a time of a real turning point in history! Just look at how it helped set the stage for some amazing achievements and how humans relied on us for support. We horses played a huge part, though I don't often stop to think about it like that!
Looking back at my journey:
My work back then wasn't about grandeur and fame. It was all about hard work and keeping my family fed! But there was a richness in our lives, and it was that day-to-day, down-to-earth experience that mattered most.
So here's to the horses of 0435 - the strong, loyal, hardworking horses who were essential to our way of life, from helping people to the field to defending them from harm.
What's happening in the world of horses today? Well, they still play an incredibly important role, even if the way we do it has changed.
Let me know your thoughts. What have you been learning about horses and their role in history? Don't forget, we are part of history! I'd love to hear from you - post your comments on EquiWorld.org. Until next time, keep your horseshoes shined and stay well, you lovely people. Neigh, neigh.
