Training
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The first domestication of the horse in China is thought to have occurred during the Lungshan period, between 3,000 an 2,300 B. C. Horse drawn war chariots, first used in Asia, were introduced to China during the Shang Dynasty (about 1,450 to 1,050 BC). Repeated invasion and devastating plunder by the Hiung-nu or Huns led to the development of a Chinese light cavalry, which provided a more effective defense against the invaders. The first Great Wall was completed in 209 BC and extended 1,500 miles from Kansu to the Yellow Sea. Originally designed to protect the Chinese from the barbarians of the northern steppes, the wall better served as a boundary between cultured China and Mongolia. Continued clashes with the Huns prompted China to adopt and refine their enemy's riding technique based on the use of a saddle, and the bow and arrow. During the Han Dynasty a more unified and coordinated war effort proved successful in stopping the destruction and pillage. In addition to superior tactics, improvements were made in selective breeding. Expeditions were sent to Southeast Asia to trade for stallions of the Tarpon or Persian type, in an attempt to upgrade the Mongolian pony in use since 300 BC. |
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