Sunday, July 31, 2011

The Different Roles Of Horses In Society

By Byron Jonas


Horses are an amazing creature that gained respect with humans as they were integrated into the needs of society. The history of mankind and this animal are strongly linked in many ways. There have been many different roles of horses in society.

It is believe that when the equines were first domesticated it was to eat them, not ride. There is debate as to whether this was a reason for the growth in size seen in some areas noticed during this time period. Eventually, man developed an understanding of the benefits of riding. The results of this conclusion had incredible effects on the advancements of mankind.

It is a well known fact that one of these beasts is capable of moving further and faster than a human can on foot. This lead to wars being fought in lands that were greater distances away, and prompting exploration to soar to all new levels. This expansion in territory lead to cultures sharing ideas and trade. There is debate if the horse was the major contributor to the rise of man from the Dark Ages.

Delivering messages from great distances was once time consuming and often a geographic nightmare, especially during times of battle. With the use of equines to get the necessary information to the recipient, that matter became more manageable and lead to many advances in culture. The well known Pony Express is evidence of that.

Horses also provided cultures with an advantage over others that did not have these creatures. A person on foot can easily be intimidated or subdued by the large size of a horse and rider. That knowledge was one reason which created the use of a mounted cavalry soldiers. This fact is also the same reason that police departments keep a mounted patrol. Mounted police officers are often seen at times of riots or large crowds to maintain control.

The versatile equine has also brought great advancements to agriculture by allowing the farmer to work more land. Horses were and in some cases still are, perfect for use on ranches when dealing with livestock. There are some areas an equine can go that a vehicle would not be able to.

The equine produced great advances in the life styles of humans. Today the equine is used in a wide variety of competitions testing skill and endurance, seen as a companion, or working in agriculture. The different roles of horses in society are ever changing, but will never disappear.




About the Author:



No comments: