The Sportization Process of the Equestrian Practices in Porto Alegre, Brazil

This study aims to analyze how equestrian practices incorporated sportization elements, in Porto Alegre, from the mid-nineteenth to the early twentieth century. This research is based on information collected from newspapers and magazines being circulated in Porto Alegre during the period under analysis. Equestrian practices are cultural practices that are historically related to the formation of the sociocultural milieu in Porto Alegre. Throughout history, the horse being a symbol of the cultural identity of Rio Grande do Sul has been conceptually connected to various aspects of the economic and social life in the region. The partnership between man and animal is also present in moments of relaxation and enjoyment. Several sources revealed that within Porto Alegre’s predominantly rural context, the first equestrian practices with sportization elements emerged in the second half of the nineteenth century. During this period, sports with horses were already popular.