Hoof Beats

How Horses Shaped Human History

By: William T. Taylor

Narrated by: Tristan Morris

Journey to the ancient past with cutting-edge science and new data to discover how horses forever altered the course of human history.

From the Rockies to the Himalayas, the bond between horses and humans has spanned across time and civilizations. In this archaeological journey, William T. Taylor explores how momentous events in the story of humans and horses helped create the world we live in today. Tracing the horse's origins and spread from the western Eurasian steppes to the invention of horse-drawn transportation and the explosive shift to mounted riding, Taylor offers a revolutionary new account of how horses altered the course of human history.

Drawing on Indigenous perspectives, ancient DNA, and new research from Mongolia to the Great Plains and beyond, Taylor guides listeners through the major discoveries that have placed the horse at the origins of globalization, trade, biological exchange, and social inequality. Hoof Beats transforms our understanding of both horses and humanity's ancient past and asks us to consider what our relationship with horses means for the future of humanity and the world around us.

©2024 William T. Taylor (P)2024 Highbridge Audio

Good Overview of Horses’ Impact on Human History

The author’s writing is engaging. His survey of the impact of horses on culture and economic development was solid as well.

Unfortunately, like most academics, the author sloppily uses the term “genocide”. He confuses conquest with genocide. While genocides often involve conquest, not all conquests are genocide. Furthermore, the author could not resist parroting academics’ tiresome hobbyhorses - “racism” and “climate change”.

While these non sequiturs diminished the book, overall the author put forth a solid effort and I recommend the book.

Compelling story of people and horses!

Lots of fascinating archaeology from all over the world! Well narrated and fun, really dives into the science behind horse domestication

the detailed history

I love the history going back to eohippus all the way to modern times. great book!

very interesting history of horses

Narration a bit dry. Very knowledgeable author with history of the spread, use and development of horse and horse cultures

Good, but not great

While this book presents intriguing insights, it tends to prioritize archaeological aspects at the expense of a comprehensive exploration of the horse's historical significance and its profound impact on human civilization.

Horses have been integral to the development of societies, yet the text only superficially addresses the multifaceted roles they have played throughout history.

For those with a deep appreciation for equestrian studies, particularly in relation to their socio-cultural implications, this work may still offer a thought-provoking read.