Transport Atlas

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Horseback Riding

Animal-Drawn Mode

An animal-powered transport mode in which a rider travels mounted directly on a horse's back, using reins, a saddle and stirrups to control and stay balanced on the animal, rather than being carried in a cart or carriage the horse draws. Horseback riding was, for thousands of years before the railway and the automobile, among the fastest and most flexible ways for a single traveler to cover overland distance, and it remains in use today for herding, sport, recreation and, in some regions, everyday transport.

Facts
Disputed
Origin Year
3500 BCE 1
Wikipedia states there is controversy over the exact date horses were domesticated and first ridden, giving an estimate of approximately 3500 BC used here as a debated value.
Core Concern
Traveling mounted directly on a horse's back for practical work, transport, recreation or competitive sport. 1
Sources
1. Wikipedia: Equestrianism
Wikipedia
  • Lead paragraph, second sentence
    This broad description includes the use of horses for practical working purposes, transportation, recreational activities, artistic or cultural exercises, and competitive sport.
  • History of horse use section
    Though there is controversy over the exact date horses were domesticated and when they were first ridden, the best estimate is that horses first were ridden approximately 3500 BC.
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