The Mighty Mule - Gloria Austin

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Résumé :
The cross that has been most significant in human history is the one between horses and donkeys to create the mule. Mules have played a key role in the development of the world. The mule has been deliberately bred by man since ancient times. Harness races for mules began in Olympia in 500 BC. The mule was highly valued in ancient Greece for use as pack animals and to draw carriages as well. In the Old Testament, the mule replaced the donkey as the royal beast and was ridden by King David and King Solomon at their coronations. In ancient Rome, mules were used for transport and their amazing strength and endurance was known to all. When Hannibal crossed the Alps in 216 BC, he had mules to carry the equipment. In Medieval Europe, when larger horses were being bred to carry heavily armored knights, mules were the preferred riding animal of gentlemen and clergy. By the eighteenth century, the breeding of mules had become a flourishing industry in Spain, Italy and France and by 1808, the United States had an estimated 855,000 mules worth approximately $66,000,000 (that would be $1,357,195,714 in today's dollars!). Mules came to be favored over horses in the second half of the nineteenth century because they developed a reputation for hardiness and the ability to take care of themselves. Unquestionably, their hard work, stamina, strength and patience played a key role in the development of the world. There are so many ways to describe a mule: loyal, steadfast, strong, reliable, calm, tolerant, intelligent, stubborn, sensible, patient and much more. Some even say that a mule has a sense of humor. What adjective do you think best describes the mule? By the time you are finished reading this book we hope you will come to know, love and respect The Mighty Mule. ...

Biographie:
Gloria Austin is a world-renowned horse enthusiast and founder of the Equine Heritage Institute, Inc. She is a carriage expert and an award-winning collector and restorer of the Carriage Association of America. She has driven over 17 different horse breeds and holds many championship titles across the globe, including the North American Four-In-Hand and Coaching Champion in Pleasure Driving in the U.S.

Gloria's love for horses started at a young age and never stopped. Her passion for horses and the art of carriage driving drove her to create her not-for-profit organization, the Equine Heritage Institute, Inc. Her mission is to educate, celebrate, and preserve the history of the horse and its role in changing lives and shaping our civilizations worldwide.

As an accomplished presenter and author, Gloria entertains audiences while teaching them about carriage driving and the history of the horse and its impact on society. To learn more about the Gloria Austin Collection visit www.GloriaAustin.com