Barb history

It is not exactly known where the Barb developed, although it is unlikely that the Barb and Arabian share a common ancestor. The Barb originated in Northern Africa during the 8th century. It is possible that is arose from crossing Turkmenian (the breed that also produced the Akhal-Teke) and Caspian horses, and descendants of Iberian horses. There are several varieties of Barb, including the Algerina, Moroccan, and Tunisian.

When imported to Europe, they were often mistaken for Arabians, mainly because their handlers were northern African Muslims who spoke Arabic. The Godolphin "Arabian", which was one of the foundation sires for the thoroughbred breed, was actually a Barb stallion, and is now called the Godolphin Barb. He was given to King Louis XV of France by a Moroccan sultan. It is said that he was working as a cart horse in Paris when an Englishman Edward Coke bought him and took him to England. When Coke died, the horse was acquired by renowned breeder Lord Godolphin, who used him for breeding to English mares.

The Barb has also been used for creating the Spanish Barb, the American Quarter Horse, the Mustang, the Appaloosa, the Andalusian and the Lusitano, as well as others. It is now bred primarily in Morocco, Algeria, Spain, and southern France, although, due to difficult economic times in its homeland, the number of pure-bred Barbs is decreasing. The World Organization of the Barb Horse, founded in Algeria in 1987, was formed to promote and preserve the breed. However, due to political situations, it is difficult to say how much of an increase in numbers or purity the breed will have.