M.A. (Anthropology) / Though the association of the "BaSotho" with the horse is a commonplace one, thus far very few anthropological studies of the subject have been undertaken. The "BaSotho" to horse relation has been clouded by the idealised Western perception of the horse as symbol of power, vitality and freedom. What further clouds the issue is the simplistic image people have of the "BaSotho" as "traditional horsemen". For an objective understanding of the contemporary "BaSotho"/horse relationship it is necessary to focus on both the general Western perception of the horse and on the reasons for this outlook, as well as on the historical background to the use of the horse in Lesotho ...