The U.S. Army Almost Brought Camels to the American Southwest
The dromedary camel of the Middle East seemed ideally suited for use in the much untamed American southwest.
Here s What You Need to Know: Getting the camels to the United States proved less daunting than convincing Congress to undertake the endeavor.
The camel has been called both the “ship of the desert” for its ability to cross arid lands where no other animal could go, but also “a horse designed by committee” the latter a disparaging term that highlights the fact that the animal appears misshapen. However, the camel actually proves otherwise and is actually highly efficient and well suited to their desert habitat. The animals can run as fast as 40 mph in short bursts or sustain an average speed of 25 mph over great distances.