The Arabian Horse Moves into Europe, 13th Century

The Arabian horse was ridden into Europe as long ago as the thirteenth century, the accompaniment as it were, to the movements of men in war, invitation, or the fruits of conquest. Its subsequent use was dictated by the needs of the country to which it was brought, and although stamina and temperament must have placed it in some special category, it is doubtful whether speed or the value of its blood would have been recognized as being of first importance. Nevertheless, it was the influence of that blood that modified and gave distinction to the indigenous breeds of Europe.