Were and when did quarter horses start?

Answer 1

The first all-American breed, the Quarter Horse is perhaps the most popular breed in the world. It was first developed in the 17th century when Thoroughbreds brought by the English were crossed with Andalusian, Barb and Arab horses brought by the Spanish conquistadors beforehand. The "quarter" in the breed's name comes from the English habit of racing these horses over a quarter of a mile---the breed is explosively fast over short distances and the powerful quarters allow it to sprint from a standing start. After distance racing became popular the Quarter Horse could not compete against the Thoroughbred, but ut soon became apparent that it was an exceptional ranch animal with great ability to work cows. The Quarter Horse also has a wonderful temperment and makes