Steppe Warriors gradually became the most powerful military force in the ancient world. From a young age, almost the entire male population was trained in horseback riding and archery, both of which were necessary skills for survival on the Steppe.
By adulthood, these activities were second nature. These horse-archers were more mobile than any other force at the time, being able to travel 50+ miles per day with ease.
The Steppe peoples quickly came to dominate Central Asia, forcing the scattered City States and Kingdoms to pay them tribute and open trade.
The martial abilities and discipline of the individual warriors was not enough. Political structure within the tribes was necessary to coalesce the tribes, so they established Confederations of various groups would sometimes form under a ruler known as a "Khan." When large numbers of nomads acted in unison they could be devastating, as when the Huns arrived in Western Europe.