In the 1920s, the Soviet Red Cavalry faced significant challenges rebuilding its horse stock after heavy losses in the Russian Civil War. With domestic breeding devastated, Soviet buyers turned to international suppliers, notably Hungary and Canada, where surplus horses were available due to collapsing markets. Between 1926 and 1927, nearly 4,000 horses were transported across Canada to ports and then shipped to Leningrad, maintaining trade ties despite deteriorating diplomatic relations. This episode highlights the pragmatic Soviet approach to business, the cultural clash between trading partners, and the influential role of Semen Budennyi, the cavalry’s Inspector General, who championed the importance of these horses.

The event discussing this historical trade is co-organized with the UCL Institute of the Americas and is illustrated by Kazimir Malevich’s artwork “Red Cavalry Riding,” created between 1928 and 1932.