When did the quarter horse become an official breedwhat year?

The American Quarter Horse was recognized as an official breed in 1940 when the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) was established. This breed developed in the United States, primarily in the 17th century, from a mix of Thoroughbred and native horses, valued for their sprinting ability in quarter-mile races. The AQHA formalized the breed's standards and registry, solidifying its status.