Horses play an important role in human history – from being hunted for their meat to transportation and cavalry. They are now more associated with hobbies and sports rather than transportation and close to zero chance in cavalry.
People with the skills to ride horses are called Equestrians. However, equestrianism is not limited to just riding horses, it covers all aspects of horse care which include taming, grooming, handling or racing – all of which require extensive experience to master. It also involves managing horses for show, racing, ranch, pets and everything else in between.
Then…
In ancient Rome, Equestrians held a high position in the society. Because horses were so expensive, anyone who can afford them were unlikely to be doing manual labor. Primarily, their horses were of so much value to the government’s cavalry. That is why they had certain privileges that were better than that of a Senator, like investing and running their own business.
In the not too distant past, there was a wide variety of day to day activities which involved the help of horses. Before there were cars, horses were widely used in transportation, pulling carriages loaded with people or carts loaded with goods. Before the tractors, they were used to plow fields. In wars, before tanks and bombs, the cavalry was considered the fastest and deadliest force there was.
Now…
Equestrians can belong to any level of society, though horses are still expensive. Instead of government and defense functions, equestrians nowadays are often seen in sports like racing, jumping and dressage.
There are still places in the world where horses are kept to work on farms; and, there are very few places where horses are considered a delicacy. Most cultures have too much respect for these creatures to eat them.
The role of equestrians have changed over time but there is still this level of nobility and pride felt whenever they are seen leading a horse ever so gracefully.
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.