This march was composed by John Philip Sousa in 1895 for the Cotton States and International Exposition held in Atlanta, Georgia. Written in 6/8 time, it has a light, buoyant character that evokes the rhythmic motion of a horse and rider, resulting in a bright and spirited march.

Throughout the piece, passages of delicate tension alternate with powerful, full-bodied sections, creating dynamic contrasts that keep listeners engaged from beginning to end.