The article examines the phenomenon of the Cimmerians as the first carriers of statehood on the territory of modern Ukraine. The relevance of the topic is due to the insufficient coverage of their role in the formation of early state formations, which took place in the context of limited written sources and the need for in-depth analysis of archaeological materials. The problem is also complicated by the difficulty of reconstructing their social structure, economic activity, and political organization due to the fragmentation of historical data.

The study of the Cimmerians is important for understanding the historical processes that took place on Ukrainian lands. It allows us to trace the origins of Ukrainian statehood, which has deep roots in history, to identify elements of national identity formation, and to confirm the continuity of the region’s cultural development. In addition, the study of the Cimmerian heritage contributes to refuting historical falsifications that deny the statehood traditions of the Ukrainian people, which is especially relevant in the context of current geopolitical challenges.

The aim of the paper is to draw attention to the role of the Cimmerians in the formation of early political structures on the territory of modern Ukraine. The tasks include analyzing the origin of the Cimmerians, studying their lifestyle, geography of residence, social structure, and political organization. Particular emphasis is placed on the study of the phenomenon of Cimmerian statehood, which was at the stage of proto-state development.

The methodological basis of the study is the historical and comparative method, which allows to establish a connection between archaeological finds and written sources, as well as the source analysis of ancient and Assyrian evidence about the Cimmerians. This approach contributed to a comprehensive analysis of the historical, social, and political aspects of their life.

The article traces the elements of the Cimmerians’ social structure, which included kings, military nobility, elders, community members, and slaves. The military organization of the Cimmerians was characterized by a high level of development due to the use of cavalry and iron weapons, which ensured successful military campaigns and the spread of their influence over large areas. Economic activity was based on cattle breeding, in particular horse breeding, although there were also agricultural tribes among the Cimmerians.

Particular attention is paid to the study of the political organization of the Cimmerians. The author suggests that their system had the features of a proto-state political structure, which included certain elements of statehood, but had not yet reached a high level of stability and development. The Cimmerians interacted with the advanced civilizations of West Asia, which was reflected in wars, trade, and cultural contacts that influenced their development.

In conclusion, it is concluded that the Cimmerians played a significant role in shaping the historical and cultural space on the territory of modern Ukraine. Their example demonstrates the early forms of political organization that laid the groundwork for the development of Ukrainian statehood and ethno-cultural identity. Studying their legacy is important not only for understanding the origins of Ukrainian history, but also for strengthening national consciousness and countering the falsification of historical facts.

Despite the significant contribution of Ukrainian and foreign researchers, many issues related to the Cimmerians remain insufficiently studied. This creates prospects for further research, in particular in the field of history of the State and law of Ukraine.

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