the prevalent ideology of the "szlachta" became "sarmatism", named after the sarmatians, alleged ancestors of the poles. this belief system was an important part of "szlachta" culture, penetrating all aspects of its life. sarmatism enshrined equality among "szlachta", horseback riding, tradition, provincial rural life, peace and pacifism; championed oriental-inspired attire ("żupan", "kontusz", "sukmana", "pas kontuszowy", "delia", "szabla"); and served to integrate the multi-ethnic nobility by creating an almost nationalistic sense of unity and of pride in the golden freedoms.