Why in dressage are the markers akehcmbf used and not abcdefgh sequence?

Answer 1

There are two main theories - one is that they were the initials of the first cities that the Romans conquered.

The most likely explanation for the dressage letters comes from the days of the Old German Imperial Court. Courtiers representing the various dignatories would be positioned around the stable yard in a strict order with the horses ready to ride.

The ranks were:

K = Kaiser

F = First Prince

P = Pferdknecht/Ostler

V = Vassal

E = Edeling/Ehrengast/Guest of Honour

B = Bannertrager/Standard Bearer

S = Schzkanzier/Chancellor of the Exchequer

R = Ritter/Knight

M = Meier/Steward

H = Hofsmarshaller/Lord Chancellor

The observant among you will notice that letters on the centre line are also used, A, D, L, X, I, G and C. Where these just letters from the alphabet to fill in the gaps, or is there a real reason behind them?