Final answer:
The disappearance of horses, ponies, and donkeys mentioned could be tied to historical events of theft or driving away. Horses had long been extinct in the Americas before the Spanish reintroduced them, facilitating their spread across the continent. Human activities have significantly influenced the historical distribution and ownership of these animals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disappearance of horses, ponies, and donkeys as described in the context likely refers to a historical event where these animals were either driven away, stolen, or otherwise removed from their rightful owner. While the specific circumstances of their disappearance in this context are not provided, historically, horses played a significant role in colonization and cultural interactions.
It is well-documented that horses originated in the Americas, migrated to Asia, and eventually became extinct in the Americas after prehistoric times. This extinction was until the Spanish conquest, when horses were reintroduced to the Americas.
Notably, Hernán Cortés recognized the decisive advantage horses provided during the Spanish conquest, and after the victory, the importation of horses increased significantly. For instance, in 1519, Coronado had 150 horses, and by 1547, over 1,500 horses were owned by Antonio de Mendoza.
Domesticated horses spread throughout the world, and by around 4000 B.C., humans started to domesticate them. Columbus' second voyage led to the reintroduction of horses to the New World, with a successful crossing and horses being used upon arrival. Eventually, horses would become an integral part of the settlement and development of the American West, as an extension of the European breeds.
In the broad sweep of history, the movement and loss of horses, ponies, and donkeys can be linked to various human activities, including trade, war, exploration, and settlement. While the direct cause of their disappearance in the given context is not specified, it can be surmised that human actions played a pivotal role.