"Horses Past and Present" by Sir Walter Gilbey is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the evolution and significance of horses in England, detailing their role in agriculture, warfare, and leisure throughout history. It specifically examines various horse breeds and their development from ancient times to the close of the 19th century. The opening of the book begins with an acknowledgment of the horse's importance in human civilization, marking it as the first domesticated animal and highlighting its unique utility across multiple sectors, including military and agricultural endeavors. It then delves into the early history of horses in England, referencing their use before and after the Conquest, outlining specific royal contributions to horse breeding, and emphasizing the shift in horse types and utility over time. The text sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of English equine history, illustrating its cultural and economic importance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)