Even the most experienced jockeys learn something new about horses every day. Here you can find out about the history of wild horses in the USA over the past few centuries.
The history of wild horses in North America
Millions of years ago, the ancestor of the wild horse we know today evolved from a dog-like creature called Eohippus on the North American continent. The earliest fossils were found in the Tennessee Valley. This creature evolved into Equus, which migrated to Asia and Africa more than 10 000 years ago.
Spanish explorers introduced the horse once again to the North American continent in the 16th century, and many horses, it is believed, reverted to a wild state once more. Some records indicate that there were once more than two million wild horses in the 19th century. However, through all the battles and bloodshed of the 19th and 20th century, there were only an estimated 17,000 wild horses left alive by the time wild horses received federal protection in 1971.
President Nixon signed a bill into law on December 15, 1971. The Act stated that “wild horses and burros are living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West; that they contribute to the diversity of life forms within the Nation and enrich the lives of the American people’’.
Looking towards the future
Horses and burros play an integral part in the history of America. Even though humans may have understated their importance over the last few centuries, and many horses have died in vain, it is crucial to learn from past mistakes. To ensure that the remaining populations of wild horses continue to roam free, it is essential to protect their habitats from unnecessary human interference.