A man buried in Mongolia in the Iron Age era

The Xiongnu period, particularly as it pertains to the Selenge region of Mongolia, is a fascinating chapter in the history of the nomadic steppe cultures of Central Asia. The Xiongnu were a confederation of nomadic tribes that emerged on the central Asian steppes and played a critical role in the history of Mongolia and its neighboring regions from roughly the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE. The Selenge River region, with its fertile valleys and strategic location, was a significant part of this cultural and political landscape.
Historical Context
The Xiongnu are often seen as one of the earliest confederations or empires to dominate the Mongolian steppes, long before the rise of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. Their rise was contemporaneous with that of the Qin and then the Han dynasties in China, with whom they had complex relationships involving warfare, trade, and diplomacy. The Xiongnu reached the height of their power in the 2nd century BCE under the leadership of Modu Chanyu, consolidating tribes and expanding their influence across vast stretches of what is now Mongolia, Siberia, Manchuria, and Central Asia.
Society and Culture
Nomadic Lifestyle: The Xiongnu were primarily pastoralists, dependent on herding livestock such as horses, cattle, sheep, and goats. Their nomadic lifestyle was dictated by the need to find fresh pastures and water sources throughout the year.
Social Structure: The Xiongnu society was hierarchical but flexible. At the top was the Chanyu, the supreme ruler, followed by nobles, warriors, and commoners. This hierarchical society was characterized by strong familial and clan ties, essential for maintaining unity across the vast and often harsh steppes.
Material Culture: Archaeological evidence from burial sites in the Selenge region, such as kurgans (burial mounds), provides insights into Xiongnu craftsmanship and trade. Items such as weapons, horse gear, pottery, and jewelry reflect a society with skilled artisans and extensive trade networks reaching as far as the Han Dynasty to the south and possibly even into Europe.
Military Prowess: The Xiongnu are often depicted as fearsome warriors, masters of mounted archery and cavalry tactics. Their ability to mobilize large confederations of tribes and their knowledge of the terrain made them formidable opponents and valued allies.
Interaction with Neighboring Cultures
Relations with China: The Xiongnu's relationship with China was complex, involving both conflict and cooperation. The Han dynasty engaged in numerous military campaigns against the Xiongnu and established fortified walls, sections of which would become part of the Great Wall of China, to defend against their incursions. Conversely, periods of peace saw tribute exchanges and intermarriages to solidify alliances.
Cultural Exchange: Despite conflicts, there was significant cultural and technological exchange between the Xiongnu and neighboring sedentary civilizations. This exchange included the introduction of certain Chinese innovations to the steppe, such as metallurgy techniques, agricultural practices, and possibly written language elements.
Other Steppe Cultures: The Xiongnu were not isolated; they interacted and often competed with other steppe cultures, including the Yuezhi, Wusun, and later, groups that would migrate westward into Europe, contributing to the famed \barbarian" migrations.
Selenge Region Specifics
The Selenge River valley, with its lush pastures and strategic geographical setting, would have been a critical hub for the Xiongnu. The proximity to trade routes and other nomadic groups facilitated cultural and economic exchanges. The archaeological sites in this area, including burial complexes and remnants of settlements, suggest it was an influential region within Xiongnu territory, potentially serving as a political or religious center.
In sum, the Xiongnu period in the Selenge region illustrates a dynamic and influential era of nomadic culture, characterized by intricate social structures, military prowess, and a vibrant interplay with neighboring civilizations. Despite the dominance of sedentary cultures in classical histories, the nomadic Xiongnu and their kin played a seminal role in shaping the broader historical and cultural landscapes of ancient Eurasia."
Sample ID | Culture/Period | Date | Location | Action |
---|---|---|---|---|
ARG001 | Late Medieval Tuv, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Tuv. Argali Mountain, Mongolia | View |
ARG002 | Late Medieval Tuv, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Tuv. Argali Mountain, Mongolia | View |
ARG003 | Late Medieval Tuv, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Tuv. Argali Mountain, Mongolia | View |
AST001 | Xiongnu Period Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 164 BCE | Khuvsgul. Atsyn Gol, Mongolia | View |
ATS001 | Xiongnu Period Tuv, Mongolia | 23 CE | Tuv. Atsyn Am, Mongolia | View |
BAM001 | Xiongnu Period Bulgan, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Bulgan. Baruun Mukhdagiin Am, Mongolia | View |
BAU001 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1305 CE | Selenge. Buural Uul, Mongolia | View |
BAY001 | Late Medieval Tuv, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Tuv. Bayan Khairkhan. Bunkhantyn Gatsaa, Mongolia | View |
BAZ001 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Banzart Khairkhan, Mongolia | View |
BER002 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Khovd, Mongolia | 1376 BCE | Khovd. Berkh Mountain, Mongolia | View |
BIL001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Zavkhan, Mongolia | 1420 BCE | Zavkhan. Biluutiin Am, Mongolia | View |
I17652 | Early Iron Age Slab Grave Culture Khentii, Mongolia | 982 BCE | Khentii. Bor Bulag, Mongolia | View |
BRG001 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Burgaldain Khundii, Mongolia | View |
BRG002 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Burgaldain Khundii, Mongolia | View |
BRG004 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Burgaldain Khundii, Mongolia | View |
BRG005 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Burgaldain Khundii, Mongolia | View |
BRL001 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1305 CE | Selenge. Buural Uul, Mongolia | View |
BRL002 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1250 CE | Selenge. Buural Uul, Mongolia | View |
BRU001 | Xiongnu Period Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Baruun Khovdiin Am, Mongolia | View |
BTO001 | Xiongnu Period Bulgan, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Bulgan. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
BUL002 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 2000 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Bulgiin Ekh, Mongolia | View |
BUR001 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 103 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
BUR002 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
BUR003 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
BUR004 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 40 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
CHD001 | Late Medieval Khentii, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khentii. Chandgan Talyn Uurkhai, Mongolia | View |
CHN001 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 356 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN003 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 384 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN004 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN006 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN007 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN008 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN010 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 89 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN012 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN014 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 1323 CE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN015 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
CHN016 | Early Iron Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Uvs, Mongolia | 400 BCE | Uvs. Chandman Mountain. Ulaangom cemetery, Mongolia | View |
DAR001 | Early Iron Age to Late Medieval Mongolia | 750 BCE | Ulaanbaatar. Dartsagt, Mongolia | View |
DAR002 | Early Iron Age to Late Medieval Mongolia | 800 BCE | Ulaanbaatar. Dartsagt, Mongolia | View |
DAS001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Lamt Mountain, Mongolia | View |
DEE001 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1328 CE | Arkhangai. Delen Tolgoi. Melkhii Chuluu, Mongolia | View |
DEL001 | Xiongnu Period Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 96 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Delgerkhaan Uul, Mongolia | View |
DOL001 | Xiongnu Period Khentii, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khentii. Khanan Uul, Mongolia | View |
DUU001 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 43 BCE | Khentii. Duulga Uul, Mongolia | View |
DUU002 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 1221 CE | Khentii. Duulga Uul, Mongolia | View |
EME002 | The Xiongnu People | 200 BCE | Arkhangai. Emeel Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
ERD001 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Erdene Mountain, Mongolia | View |
ERM001 | Pre-Bronze Age Mongolia | 3782 BCE | Arkhangai. Erdenemandal, Mongolia | View |
FNO001 | Pre-Bronze Age Buryatia, Russia | 5995 BCE | Buryatia. Fofonovo, Russia | View |
FNO003 | Pre-Bronze Age Buryatia, Russia | 6000 BCE | Buryatia. Fofonovo, Russia | View |
FNO006 | Pre-Bronze Age Buryatia, Russia | 6000 BCE | Buryatia. Fofonovo, Russia | View |
FNO007 | Pre-Bronze Age Buryatia, Russia | 5882 BCE | Buryatia. Fofonovo, Russia | View |
GAN002 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Ganzagad, Mongolia | View |
GTO001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Gangyn Tsagaan Ovoo, Mongolia | View |
GUN002 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Gun Tharmagtai, Mongolia | View |
HUD001 | The Xiongnu People | 200 BCE | Arkhangai. Khudgiin Am, Mongolia | View |
IAG001 | Early Bronze Age Khovd, Mongolia | 2570 BCE | Khovd. Yagshiin Khuduu, Mongolia | View |
IKU001 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Ikh Uvgun, Mongolia | View |
IMA001 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 200 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA002 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 200 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA003 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 174 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA004 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 200 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA005 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 169 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA006 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 51 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA007 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 200 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
IMA008 | Xiongnu Period Buryatia, Russia | 200 BCE | Buryatia. Il'movaya Pad, Russia | View |
JAA001 | Xiongnu Period Khentii, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khentii. Jargalantyn Am. Jargalantyn Khondii/Hundhii, Mongolia | View |
JAG001 | Xiongnu Period Khentii, Mongolia | 197 BCE | Khentii. Jargalantyn Am. Jargalantyn Khondii/Hundhii, Mongolia | View |
KGK001 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Arkhangai. Khirgest Khooloi, Mongolia | View |
KHI001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1104 BCE | Khovd. Khoit Tsenkher. Tarvagatain Am, Mongolia | View |
KHL001 | Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khovd. Khalzan Khoshuu. Bodonch Gol, Mongolia | View |
KHN001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Khalgan Khoshuu. Zamyn Khashat. Khanan bor, Mongolia | View |
KHO001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1163 CE | Khovd. Khoit Tsenkher. Tarvagatain Am, Mongolia | View |
KHO006 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1150 BCE | Khovd. Khoit Tsenkher. Tarvagatain Am, Mongolia | View |
KHO007 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 26 CE | Khovd. Khoit Tsenkher. Tarvagatain Am, Mongolia | View |
KHU001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Zavkhan, Mongolia | 2000 BCE | Zavkhan. Khukh Khoshuunii Boom, Mongolia | View |
KHV002 | Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khuvsgul. Khavtsal II, Mongolia | View |
KNN001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Khalgan Khoshuu. Zamyn Khashat. Khanan bor, Mongolia | View |
KNU001 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Arkhangai. Khanui, Mongolia | View |
KRN001 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Karnikovyn Am, Mongolia | View |
KRN002 | Late Medieval Selenge, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Selenge. Karnikovyn Am, Mongolia | View |
MIT001 | Early Iron Age Tuv, Mongolia | 1192 BCE | Tuv. Morin Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
MRI001 | Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khuvsgul. Mori Baridag, Mongolia | View |
NAI001 | The Xiongnu People | 200 BCE | Arkhangai. Naimaa Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
NAI002 | The Xiongnu People | 200 BCE | Arkhangai. Naimaa Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
NOM001 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 500 CE | Arkhangai. Nomgonii Khundii, Mongolia | View |
NRC001 | Late Medieval Uvurkhangai, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Uvurkhangai. Baga Artsatyn Am. NW cemetery, Mongolia | View |
OLN001 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN002 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN003 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 772 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN004 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN005 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN007 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN008 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN009 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN010 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN011 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
OLN012 | Early Medieval Mongolia | 700 CE | Arkhangai. Olon Dov, Mongolia | View |
PTO001 | Early Iron Age Buryatia, Russia | 1053 BCE | Buryatia. Pesterevo 82, Russia | View |
RAH001 | Late Medieval Khentii, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khentii. Rahsaan Khad, Mongolia | View |
SAN001 | Xiongnu Period Dornod, Mongolia | 10 CE | Dornod. Sant Uul, Mongolia | View |
SBG001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Khovd, Mongolia | 1442 BCE | Khovd. Shar Gobi-3. Shar gov' 3, Mongolia | View |
SHA001 | Late Medieval Umungobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Umungobi. Shar Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
SHG001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Sharga Uul, Mongolia | View |
SHG002 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Sharga Uul, Mongolia | View |
SHG003 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Sharga Uul, Mongolia | View |
SHR001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Shar Khad, Mongolia | View |
SHT001 | Early Bronze Age Mongolia | 3320 BCE | Bayankhongor. Shatar Chuluu, Mongolia | View |
SHT002 | Early Bronze Age Mongolia | 3316 BCE | Bayankhongor. Shatar Chuluu, Mongolia | View |
SHU001 | Early Iron Age to Late Medieval Uvurkhangai, Mongolia | 1107 BCE | Uvurkhangai. Shunkhlai Mountain, Mongolia | View |
SHU002 | Early Iron Age to Late Medieval Uvurkhangai, Mongolia | 1175 CE | Uvurkhangai. Shunkhlai Mountain, Mongolia | View |
SKT001 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT002 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 340 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT003 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT004 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT005 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT006 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 162 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT007 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT008 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT009 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT010 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 356 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SKT012 | Xiongnu to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khuvsgul. Salkhityn Am, Mongolia | View |
SOL001 | The Xiongnu People | 200 BCE | Arkhangai. Solbi Uul, Mongolia | View |
SON001 | Xiongnu Period Tuv, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Tuv. Songino Khairkhan, Mongolia | View |
SOU001 | Pre-Bronze Age Dornod, Mongolia | 4684 BCE | Dornod. South bank of Kherlen River, Mongolia | View |
TAH002 | Late Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Khovd. Takhiltyn Khotgor II, Mongolia | View |
TAK001 | Xiongnu Period Khovd, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Khovd. Takhiltyn Khotgor I, Mongolia | View |
TAV001 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 200 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Tavan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TAV005 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 200 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Tavan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TAV006 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 200 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Tavan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TAV011 | Late Medieval Xiongnu | 200 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Tavan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TEV002 | Xiongnu Period Uvurkhangai, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Uvurkhangai. Tevsh Mountain, Mongolia | View |
TEV003 | Xiongnu Period Uvurkhangai, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Uvurkhangai. Tevsh Mountain, Mongolia | View |
TMI001 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 40 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TSA001 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA002 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA003 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA004 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA005 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA006 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSA007 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Tsagaan Chuluut, Mongolia | View |
TSB001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Mongolia | 660 CE | Arkhangai. Tsaidam Bag. Shiveet Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TSI001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age Mongolia | 900 BCE | Arkhangai. Tsaidam Bag. Shiveet Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUH001 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUH002 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUK001 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 250 CE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUK002 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUK003 | Early Medieval Xiongnu | 150 BCE | Arkhangai. Tamiryn Ulaan Khoshuu. Burkhan Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
TUM001 | Early Medieval Bulgan, Mongolia | 500 CE | Bulgan. Shoroon Bumbagar. Türkic mausoleum, Mongolia | View |
UGO001 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Ugoomor, Mongolia | View |
UGO002 | Late Medieval Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dornod. Ugoomor, Mongolia | View |
UGU001 | Medieval Xiongnu | 676 CE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU002 | Medieval Xiongnu | 41 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU003 | Medieval Xiongnu | 50 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU005 | Medieval Xiongnu | 17 CE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU006 | Medieval Xiongnu | 50 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU010 | Medieval Xiongnu | 43 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
UGU011 | Medieval Xiongnu | 50 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View |
ULA001 | Late Medieval Bulgan, Mongolia | 1035 CE | Bulgan. Ulaan Kherem II, Mongolia | View |
ULI001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Early Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1278 BCE | Khovd. lower and middle terraces. Uliastai River, Mongolia | View |
ULI002 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Early Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 651 CE | Khovd. lower and middle terraces. Uliastai River, Mongolia | View |
ULI003 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Early Medieval Khovd, Mongolia | 1203 BCE | Khovd. lower and middle terraces. Uliastai River, Mongolia | View |
ULN001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1392 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN002 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1650 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN003 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1416 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN004 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 96 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN005 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1602 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN006 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1650 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN007 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1650 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN009 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1650 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN010 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1650 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN011 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1176 CE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
ULN015 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Xiongnu to Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1445 BCE | Sukhbaatar. Ulaanzuukh, Mongolia | View |
UUS001 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 1250 CE | Khuvsgul. Uushigiin Uver, Mongolia | View |
UUS002 | Middle to Late Bronze Age to Late Medieval Khuvsgul, Mongolia | 1292 CE | Khuvsgul. Uushigiin Uver, Mongolia | View |
UVG001 | Xiongnu Period Bulgan, Mongolia | 200 BCE | Bulgan. Ovgont, Mongolia | View |
YUR001 | Xiongnu Period Selenge, Mongolia | 52 BCE | Selenge. Yuroo II, Mongolia | View |
ZAA001 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 550 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAA002 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 596 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAA003 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 1021 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAA004 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 550 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAA005 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 1033 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAA007 | Early to Late Medieval Mongolia | 671 CE | Bulgan. Zaan-Khoshuu, Mongolia | View |
ZAM001 | Late Medieval Dundgobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dundgobi. Zambaga Khairkhan, Mongolia | View |
ZAM002 | Late Medieval Dundgobi, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Dundgobi. Zambaga Khairkhan, Mongolia | View |
ZAR002 | Late Medieval Bulgan, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Bulgan. Zaraa Tolgoi, Mongolia | View |
ZAY001 | Late Medieval Sukhbaatar, Mongolia | 1000 CE | Sukhbaatar. Khalgan Khoshuu. Zamyn Khashat. Khanan bor, Mongolia | View |
I14037 | 1422 BCE | Sükhbaatar aimag. Tuvshinshiree sum. Bulgiin ekh. Tomb 47, Mongolia | View | |
I13180 | 3012 BCE | Bayan-Ulgii aimag. Ulaankhus sum. Kumdii govi barrow. burial 2, Mongolia | View | |
I6361 | 2619 BCE | Bayan-Ulgii aimag. Ulaankhus sum. Kurgak govi barrow 2 secondary burial, Mongolia | View | |
I13173 | 1876 BCE | Khovd. Munkhkhairkhan sum. Ulaan goviin uzuur barrow 2, Mongolia | View | |
UGU002 | 41 BCE | Selenge. Uguumur Uul, Mongolia | View | |
I6362 | 1044 BCE | Khovd. Bulgan sum. Khudzhirtyn gol I. kurgan 2, Mongolia | View | |
I12957 | 2574 BCE | Khovd. Bulgan sum. Yagshiin hodoo. Barrow 3, Mongolia | View | |
BOR001 | Early Iron Age Slab Grave Culture Khentii, Mongolia | 982 BCE | Bor-Bulag (Khentii Province, Binder District), Mongolia | View |
BUL001 | Late Bronze Age Ulaanzukh 2, Mongolia | 1422 BCE | Bulgiin-ekh (Sükhbaatar Province, Tüvshinshiree District), Mongolia | View |
KUM001 | Early Bronze Age Ulgii 1, Mongolia | 3012 BCE | Kumdii-govi (Bayan-Ölgii Province, Ulaankhus District), Mongolia | View |
KUR001 | Early Bronze Age Ulgii 1, Mongolia | 2619 BCE | Kurgak govi (Bayan-Ulgii aimag, Ulaankhus sum), Mongolia | View |
UAA001 | Middle Bronze Age Munkhkhairkhan 2, Mongolia | 1876 BCE | Ulaan-goviin-uzuur (Khovd Province, Mönkhkhairkhan District), Mongolia | View |
UGU004 | Medieval Xiongnu | 41 BCE | Uguumur-Uul (Selenge Province, Sant District), Mongolia | View |
ULZ001 | Late Bronze Age Center West 5, Mongolia | 1044 BCE | Khudzhirtyn-gol-1 (Khovd Province, Üyench District), Mongolia | View |
YAG001 | Early Bronze Age Chemurchek Culture 2, Mongolia | 2574 BCE | Yagshiin-Khuduu (Khovd Province, Bulgan District), Mongolia | View |
Sample ID | Culture/Period | Date | Location | Action |
---|---|---|---|---|
YUR001 | Xiongnu Period Selenge, Mongolia | 52 BCE | Selenge. Yuroo II, Mongolia | View |
Ancient genetic admixture analysis compares the DNA profile of this individual (YUR001) with present-day reference populations. These results show what percentage of the individual's genetic makeup resembles ancient populations from different geographic regions.
Modern genetic admixture analysis compares the DNA profile of this individual (YUR001) with present-day reference populations. These results show what percentage of the individual's genetic makeup resembles modern populations from different geographic regions.
These results complement the ancient ancestry components shown in the previous section, offering a different perspective on the individual's genetic profile by comparing it with modern reference populations rather than prehistoric ancestral groups.
The G25 coordinates for the sample YUR001 are as follows. You can analyze its admixture using G25 Studio.
YUR001,0.02404312,-0.45003514,0.0068438,-0.05981764,0.05258996,0.01930272,0.00560706,0.00116714,-0.00811028,0.0041542,-0.03695112,-0.00355766,0.004172,-0.0059017,-0.00373728,-0.00198936,0.00144288,-0.00061468,-0.00306584,-0.00222338,0.01342734,0.00385164,0.01041646,-0.0006915,0.00668093
A Dynamic 6,000-Year Genetic History of Eurasia's Eastern Steppe
The Eastern Eurasian Steppe was home to historic empires of nomadic pastoralists, including the Xiongnu and the Mongols. However, little is known about the region's population history. Here, we reveal its dynamic genetic history by analyzing new genome-wide data for 214 ancient individuals spanning 6,000 years. We identify a pastoralist expansion into Mongolia ca. 3000 BCE, and by the Late Bronze Age, Mongolian populations were biogeographically structured into three distinct groups, all practicing dairy pastoralism regardless of ancestry. The Xiongnu emerged from the mixing of these populations and those from surrounding regions. By comparison, the Mongols exhibit much higher eastern Eurasian ancestry, resembling present-day Mongolic-speaking populations. Our results illuminate the complex interplay between genetic, sociopolitical, and cultural changes on the Eastern Steppe.