Horses Past and Present

The work traces the horse’s development in England from early medieval times through the nineteenth century, reviewing how successive rulers, wars and social change shaped equine roles in warfare, agriculture, transport, hunting and racing. It surveys breeding practices, notable sires and the influence of imported bloodstock, and charts the emergence of distinct light and heavy types. Societies, legal measures and stud and stable management receive attention alongside practical horsemanship, coaching and remount concerns. Illustrated examples and period anecdotes punctuate a compact compilation that emphasizes developments and shifting demand up to the end of the nineteenth century.