Science Study Identifies DNA Changes That Made Horses Rideable

Did a single genetic mutation make horses rideable?

Domestication of the horse was one of the crowning achievements of early humans. It led to advancements in transportation, warfare and agriculture, effectively galloping societies into the modern era.

The Genetic Trick That Helped Humans Ride Horses

Horses have played a critical role in shaping human society, but scientists are still piecing together the story of their domestication.

The rise of rideable horses

Horses may have become rideable with the help of a genetic mutation

To make horses rideable during domestication, people may have inadvertently targeted a mutation in horses to strengthen their backs and their balance.