Originally Bred entirely for racing for the amusement of British royalty, aristocracy, and gentry. The popularity and lure of gambling spread thoroughbred racing and breeding throughout the world. 

This horse originally from the middle east is believed to stem from three Arabian Stallions that where imported to England. These Arabian stallions were known as The Darley Arabian, The Godolphin Arabian (Barb), and the Byerley Turk. Of the three ancestors probably only the Darley Arabian was true Arab. The Godolphin was most likely Barb, and the Byerley Turk was almost certainly a Turkamene type.

More importations of Oriental horses, largely Arabs, firmly established the Eastern blood basis for the breed which, when added to the British colder blooded and obvious different type produced a Larger horse with a larger stride, more scope and more speed.

Recently an American type of Thoroughbred has developed. This horse tends to have a high croup, with the hindquarters higher than the wither, and a longer hind leg, which often swings out slightly when in action to create a longer stride.

Thoroughbreds are known for their "heart" and being high strung. Their temperament is often unstable, but willing to give it's all when handled by a person they can trust, and coax their best out of the horse.

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All Information was obtained by The Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Horse Breeds Author: Susan McBane. For more information check this book out of your local library, or purchase it at your local book store.