It is Xenophon, Socrates’s lesser-known student, who was credited with having brought humane treatment to horses. Xenophon was primarily interested in the military use of horses; however, he distanced himself from more punitive training methods by seeking fi rst to gain the trust and cooperation of his horses. He advocated enjoyment in the execution of military movements on the part of horse and rider. Instead of punishment for the failure to comply with rider direction, Xenophon insisted on kindness and learning through rewards.