Gloria Austin
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'.
