Tarandians

The Tarandians were an ancient people who inhabited the region of Tarentum, located in the southern part of the Italian peninsula. They are first mentioned in historical records during the 8th century BC, and their city-state, Taras, became a significant player in the Greek world during the Archaic period. The Tarandians were known for their maritime prowess and their participation in the Greek colonization efforts, particularly in the western Mediterranean and the Black Sea. They were also involved in the early stages of the Greek colonization of Southern Italy, establishing colonies such as Metapontum and Thurii.

The Tarandians were part of the Doric Greek tribes, and their language, Tarantine, was a dialect of Doric Greek. They adopted many aspects of Greek culture, including their alphabet, religion, and political structures. The city of Taras was a member of the Doric Hexapolis, a league of six Doric city-states in Southern Italy.

The Tarandians' influence waned in the 5th century BC, as they were gradually absorbed into the broader Greek world. Their legacy, however, can still be seen in the archaeological remains of their city and the influence they had on the development of Southern Italian culture.