The Sogdian people were an ancient Iranian ethnic group that lived in the region of Sogdiana, which is located in present-day Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. They were known for their rich culture, language, and significant role in trade along the Silk Road, connecting the East and West. The Sogdian language, part of the Iranian languages, was widely spoken and used in trade and commerce. Sogdians were skilled merchants and played a crucial role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between different civilizations, including China, India, and the Roman Empire.