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The Iron Age Steppe and the Emergence of the Scythians

Tides of History

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Understanding Cultural Differences and Misconceptions

The people thriving in a world of mobility, ambitious elites, and specific resources weren't inherently violent. Winners of conflicts could become rich and powerful, while losers faced displacement or annihilation. The sedentary farming communities viewed the step peoples' way of life as barbaric due to their nomadic lifestyle and horseback warfare. The step peoples weren't savages, but their culture differed significantly from that of settled communities. Recent archaeological findings show that not all step peoples were strictly nomadic, as some cultivated crops, had semi-permanent settlements, and engaged in craft activities and mining. Understanding the vast cultural diversity across the wide expanse of the steppe region is crucial to dispel misconceptions and appreciate their way of life.

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