Bits - Their History, Use and Misuse

However, it was the invention of the bit that made the horse the great tool of man. First man used horses for his chariots, then men riding horse back brought order to civilization out of chaos.

From the time of the Sumerian chariots, sixty centuries ago, until the coming of the railroad, the horse was man's land transportation.

Not only was the bit a necessity in making the horse play an important role in the practical affairs of government, warfare, and transport, it was also essential in making the horse play a leading part in the refinements of country life.