Horse PNG

By 55 million years ago, the first members of the horse family, the deer-sized Hyracotherium, were escaping through the forests that cover North America. For more than half of their history, most horses remained small, forest explorers. However, climate change led to the expansion of grasslands, and about 20 million years ago, many new species quickly appeared. Some–but not all–became larger and had the familiar hooves and grazing diet we associate with horses today. These species alone survived until now, but in the past, smaller and larger species lived side by side.

Horses were once much smaller than they are today. But there was not a steady increase in size over time. Little Nannippus, shown in the diorama at full adult size, was actually smaller than its predecessors.

Mesohippus 45 kg
Merychippus 100 kg
Nannippus 75 kg
Equus 500 kg

The relationship between humans and horses is thousands of years old. Ancient civilizations such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans recognized the value of these noble creatures. Horses played major roles in warfare, speeding up trade and communication, and enabling the exploration of new territories. Their speed, strength, and endurance made them invaluable assets in battles and conquests, changing the course of history. The rise of cavalry changed the dynamics of warfare forever, allowing for swift and effective maneuvers that shaped empires.

The horse has also been a symbol of power, glory, and freedom. In various cultures, horses were a symbol of royalty and power, often reserved for the elite. Their grace and strength symbolized the qualities humans aspired to display. This symbolism spread to literature and art, with horses frequently depicted in respected figures and heroic tales. Furthermore, the image of a galloping horse across open landscapes has long been associated with the idea of ​​unbridled freedom as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of nature.

In addition to their physical strength, horses are also known for being gentle and yielding. Equine therapy programs harness the therapeutic powers of horses to help individuals struggling with physical, emotional, and mental challenges. Through interaction with horses, participants experience a sense of calm, connection, and control, opening the way for healing and personal growth.

Furthermore, horses play a special role in culture and traditions around the world. From the majestic horses of ancient fairy tales to symbolic symbols of freedom and adventure in Western literature and cinema, horses symbolize endurance, freedom, and the spirit of the untamed wild.