Bakewell, Robert (1725-1795), was one of the first British farmers to show how livestock could be improved by the careful selection of breeding animals. On his farm in Dishley, Leicestershire, England, he produced improved breeds of sheep, cattle, and draft horses. His experiments stimulated interest in selective breeding and helped to improve animal husbandry. Bakewell was born in Dishley. He died on Oct. 1, 1795.
