Who is a nomad - cattle or warrior?

Who is a nomad? Is it an herder or a warrior? What trace in the history left the nomadic peoples? The answers to these questions can be found in the article.

Etymology of the word

Thousands of years ago, Eurasia was not covered by megacities. Its broad steppes were a place of residence for many peoples and tribes, which from time to time moved in search of more fertile land, suitable for both farming and livestock. Over time, many tribes settled near rivers and began to lead a sedentary lifestyle. But other peoples, who did not manage to occupy fertile land in time, had to wander, that is, constantly move from place to place. So who is the nomad? Translated from the Turkic language, this word means "aul (yurta) on the road, on the road," which reflects the nature of the life of such tribes.

Chinese dynasties, Persian shahs and Mongolian khans - they were all past nomads.

All the time on the way

The nomads changed their parking lot every season. The purpose of the movement was to search for more suitable habitats, increase the prosperity of the people. Basically these tribes were engaged in cattle breeding, crafts and trade. But these studies do not provide an exhaustive explanation of who such a nomad is. Often they attacked peaceful farmers, winning lands they liked from the Aborigines. As a rule, nomads, forced to survive in harsh conditions, were stronger and won. Therefore, they were not always peaceful cattle-breeders and traders trying to feed their families. Mongols, Scythians, Sarmatians, Cimmerians, Arias - they were all skillful and brave warriors. The loudest glory of the conquerors was acquired by the Scythians and Sarmatians.

Historical significance

Getting acquainted with the history lessons with those who are nomads, schoolchildren always recognize such names as Genghis Khan and Attila. These outstanding warriors were able to create an invincible army and unite under their own heads many small nationalities and tribes.

Attila is the ruler of the nomadic people of the Huns. Almost for 20 years of his reign (from 434 to 453) he united Germanic, Turkic and other tribes, created a power whose borders stretched from the Rhine to the banks of the Volga.

Genghis Khan is the first khan of the Great Mongolian state. He organized campaigns in the Caucasus, Eastern Europe, China and Central Asia. He founded the largest in the history of mankind, an empire of almost 38 million square meters. Km! It stretched from Novgorod to Southeast Asia and from the Danube to the Sea of Japan.

Their actions aroused fear and respect among peaceful tribes. They defined the basic concept of who is a nomad. It is not just a pastoralist, an artisan and a merchant who lives in a yurt in the steppe, but above all - a skilful, strong and brave warrior.

Now you know the meaning of the word "nomads".