The earliest horse harnessing and milking.

This research studies evidence of early horse domestication, particularly harnessing and milking, during the Botai Culture of Kazakhstan around 3500 B.C.E, which significantly influenced transportation, communication, and warfare.

Evidence for Domestication of Botai Horses

Investigators presented three strands of evidence supporting the early domestication of horses in the Eneolithic Botai Culture.

• The first set of evidence comes from the metrical analysis of horse metacarpals, the long bones in the forelimb. Research showed that the structure and size of the metacarpals of Botai horses bear a closer resemblance to Bronze Age domestic horses rather than Paleolithic wild horses from the same region.
• Secondly, specific pathological characteristics were observed that suggest the horses were bridled, and likely ridden, denoting a level of control and use typical in domesticated animals.
• Lastly, the study utilized organic residue analysis. By analyzing the carbon (delta13C) and hydrogen (deltaD) isotopic values of fatty acids found in ceramics, the team discovered traces of processed mare’s milk and carcass products. The presence of these residues indicates a developed domestic economy that went beyond primary use (transport, riding) and included secondary products, such as food and drink derived from animals.

Implication for Understanding Prehistoric Cultures

The findings of this research provide an in-depth view of the early stages of horse domestication and their role in ancient societies, painting a clearer understanding of the prehistoric Botai Culture’s lifestyle and economy. If the Botai people were indeed capable of harnessing and milking horses around 3500 B.C.E., it suggests a level of sophistication and advancement in their abilities to manipulate and utilize the resources around them. This information prompts reevaluation of other cultures during the same period, spurring discussion on the proliferation of horse domestication and its potential impact on human development.