- DNA shows Scythian elites were a related, hereditary class—status and power were passed down across families, even over long distances.
- The famous "Golden Man" was likely genetically male and a member of the southern Saka; his 4th–3rd century BC kurgan contained over 4,000 gold ornaments and rich grave goods.
- Nearly half of the elite burials were women, with lavish headdresses and ritual items—suggesting women often held high social and possibly shamanic roles.
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