1. Origin and Early Spread:
* North America: Horses evolved in North America around 55 million years ago. They thrived here for millions of years, spreading across the continent.
* Extinction: Around 10,000 years ago, horses went extinct in North America, likely due to climate change and overhunting by early humans.
2. Reintroduction:
* Spanish Conquest: In the 15th century, European explorers brought horses to the Americas during the Spanish conquest. These horses were descendants of horses domesticated in Eurasia.
* Adaptation and Spread: These horses escaped or were released, thriving in the vast grasslands of the Great Plains. They quickly adapted to the environment and reproduced rapidly.
3. Impact on the Great Plains:
* Native American Culture: Horses revolutionized Native American life on the Great Plains. They became essential for hunting buffalo, transportation, and warfare.
* Ecological Changes: Horses grazed heavily, contributing to the transformation of grasslands and affecting the ecosystem.
In summary: Horses did not evolve on the Great Plains but were reintroduced by Europeans during the 15th century, where they thrived and played a significant role in shaping the culture and ecology of the region.