Famous Horses at War: A Soldier's Mount Throughout History

This book celebrates the color and nostalgia of a fighting past, from eohippus the first horse to Sefton, the last warhorse injured in the line of duty, and the stark reality of thousands of animals sacrificed for men's greed and ambition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Before the brazen frenzy ignites, the horses unveil their noble powers, revealing an unwavering spirit of courage and resilience. O patient eyes, courageous hearts, they embark upon the battlefield, where the clash of steel and the thunder of hooves echo through the ages. In the days of horsed cavalry, a soldier's mount becomes a living, breathing companion, an unwavering ally in the face of adversity. It gallops into the jaws of death at the sound of the bugle and the nudge of spurs, carrying its rider across arid deserts, treacherous rivers, and towering mountains. Whole societies thrived upon the back of these magnificent creatures, from the Huns and Mongols to the tribes of the North American plains. Horses were revered as gods, their majestic presence inspiring awe and reverence in ancient civilizations such as Greece, Aztecs, and even the Roman Empire. The Roman emperor Caligula, in his twisted ambition, even sought to elevate his horse to the position of consul.

However, the reality of war is not limited to the grand spectacle of cinematic depictions. The majority of us have only ever witnessed warhorses in the movies, portrayed as the Scots Greys at Waterloo, the Light Brigade at Balaclava, Taras Bulba's Cossacks on the Steppes, and Custer's cavalry at the Little Big Horn. This book serves as a celebration of the vibrant colors and nostalgic echoes of a bygone era, from the dawn of equine existence to the final warhorse injured in the line of duty. It pays tribute to the countless animals who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of men's greed and ambition, those who perished on campaign, the maimed cab-horses, and the fodder for the knacker's yard.

The warhorse's legacy is a testament to the indomitable spirit of animals and the profound impact they have had on human history. Their bravery, loyalty, and unwavering service have shaped the course of battles, inspired legends, and etched themselves into the annals of time. As we reflect upon the past, let us honor the memory of these noble creatures and the sacrifices they made for the greater good. May their spirit continue to inspire us, reminding us of the power of compassion, bravery, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399093057