Horses were introduced to the Shoshone in the 18th century, following their acquisition from Spanish settlers. With the introduction of horses, the Shoshone became much more mobile and expanded their territories. They developed masterful horse riding skills and used them for transportation, hunting, and warfare, significantly transforming their way of life.
Horses allowed the Shoshone to travel faster, cover longer distances, and efficiently transport their belongings. They became crucial partners for hunting, as horses enabled the Shoshone to pursue and hunt buffalo and other large game more effectively. The adoption of horses also greatly facilitated trade and communication with neighboring tribes and distant trading partners.
Despite the impact of horses on their mobility and lifestyle, the Shoshone continued to rely on their traditional modes of travel when horses were unavailable or inconvenient. They exhibited remarkable adaptability and remained capable of long-distance journeys on foot when circumstances demanded it.
Overall, the Shoshone's proficiency in traveling both on foot and with horses played a crucial role in their survival, cultural development, and interactions with the wider North American landscape.