Who first bred a horse and donkey?

It's impossible to say definitively who first bred a horse and donkey, as the practice likely occurred independently in several places throughout history.

Here's what we know:

* Ancient Times: Evidence suggests that mules (the offspring of a male donkey and female horse) were known and used in ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. This suggests the breeding of horses and donkeys occurred well before recorded history.

* No Single "Breeder": The act of breeding a horse and a donkey was likely a natural occurrence that happened repeatedly across various cultures and regions. It wasn't a deliberate scientific experiment with a single individual taking credit.

* Purpose: Mules were highly prized for their strength, hardiness, and ability to endure harsh conditions, making them ideal for work animals.

While we can't pinpoint a specific individual or group as the first to breed a horse and donkey, it's clear that the practice has been around for a long time, driven by the practical benefits of the resulting offspring.