szkítsék

The term "szkítsék" is a Hungarian word that generally translates to "Scythian" in English, referring to the ancient nomadic peoples who inhabited the Eurasian Steppe. These Iranian-speaking tribes were prominent from approximately the 9th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. Their territory spanned a vast region, from Eastern Europe and the Carpathian Basin to Central Asia and Siberia.

Historically, the Scythians are known for their skilled horsemanship and warfare. Archaeological evidence, particularly from the kurgans (burial mounds), reveals their rich material culture, including intricate goldwork, weaponry, and distinctive animal-style art. They were renowned for their composite bows and cavalry tactics.

The Scythians interacted with various settled civilizations, including the Greeks, Persians, and Chinese. Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, provided significant, though sometimes embellished, accounts of their customs and society. They were not a single unified empire but rather a collection of tribes and confederations. Their influence waned with the rise of other nomadic groups, such as the Sarmatians, and their eventual assimilation or displacement. The term "szkítsék" therefore encapsulates this historical and cultural legacy within the Hungarian context.