8 THE BREEDS OF LIVE-STOCK 
by tenant farmers who are frugal and thrifty, and good 
tillers of the soil. The natural conditions of this region 
all combine to make a most favorable environment for 
this widely known and popular breed. Among the breeds 
of draft horses that have been imported to America from 
France, the Percheron leads both in numbers and in 
popularity. 
2. History in France. — France has long been noted 
for good horses. The horses of France, like those of other 
countries, were first improved for the purpose of war. 
The Flemish blood was largely drawn on in early times 
and importations of oriental blood were made at a very 
early date. This blood was infused with the native horse 
stock of France, which may have been Flemish in its 
origin. The oriental blood imparted a degree of refine- 
ment and finish that has ever since characterized the 
modern draft-horse stock of France. 
Since 732, when the French defeated the Saracens and 
captured their horses, infusions of Arabian blood have 
been made, and the subsequent use of Arabian stallions 
on the native mares continued as late as 1820. In this 
way, a foundation was laid for a breed of horses possessing 
activity, quality and strength. The extension of rail- 
roads, reducing the use of the omnibus, seems to have di- 
verted the breed towards a heavier type. This led to the 
use of Flemish stallions. The conditions of La Perche be- 
ing favorable for the growth of strong, active horses, the 
breed started in this way made very rapid progress. There 
are some features of French management that may have 
had an influence also in directing the development of the 
breed. It is a common practice to work the stallions, 
and this may have been a factor of some effect on their 
dispositions, making them more amenable to work. 
