The Beautiful Jim Key is a well researched history of the most famous horse in America a century ago. Public reaction to the horse's perceived intelligence led to a change in thinking about the realtionship of humans and animals that is felt to this day. The interesting story of this extraordinary animal is told along with that of his fascinating owner, William Key, who was born into slavery and became a successful entrepeneur. The career of horse and owner, as well as promoter Albert Rogers are highlighted against the backdrop of the dynamic of race relations of the post-reconstruction era.