The Horse That Won the West

The remarkable Sorraia horse – a resilient breed that shaped American history from Spanish conquest to the modern West – now fights for survival in a contentious battle between preservation and progress. In 1519, when indigenous peoples first encountered Hernán Cortés's mounted army, they believed they were witnessing supernatural creatures – half-man, half-beast. These "monsters" were Sorraia horses, compact but hardy steeds from southern Portugal whose stamina and adaptability would prove crucial to the European conquest of the Americas. While smaller than other breeds, these resilient horses not only survived grueling Atlantic crossings but thrived in the New World, becoming the foundation of the American mustang. Though nearly forgotten by history until the 20th century, the Sorraia's legacy endures in isolated wild herds across South Dakota, Wyoming, Oregon, and Nevada. Today, these living links to America's past find themselves at the center of an increasingly urgent debate over public lands, wildlife management, and cultural preservation. Marine biologist and horse breeder John Christopher Fine draws from extensive research and firsthand experience to trace this remarkable breed's journey – from its Iberian origins through its role in shaping North American history to its current status as a rare breed fighting for survival. Featuring over 100 stunning color photographs, this richly detailed narrative reveals not just the story of a horse, but a mirror of America's complex relationship with its wild heritage.