The term "Scythian" refers to a group of ancient nomadic tribes that inhabited the Eurasian steppes, particularly from around the 9th century BCE to the 1st century CE. They are known for their skilled horse riding, archery, and unique burial practices, which often included elaborate tombs called kurgans. The Scythians played a significant role in the cultural and economic exchanges between the East and West. Scythians are often associated with the Sarmatians, another group of nomadic people, and their influence extended across regions that include modern-day Ukraine, Russia, and parts of Central Asia. They are also noted in historical texts by writers such as Herodotus, who documented their customs and way of life.