Bactriana

1693. A geographical dictionary representing the present and ancient names by Edmund Bohun.

Bactriana, (Batter in the modern Appellation) was an antient Province of Persia, answering in part now to Corasan in Persia, and in part to Ʋsbeck in Tartary; divided by the River Geichon. Its Capital City was Bactra, hereafter mentioned by the name of Bagdasan, which is of little consideration. The River Bactrus of this Country has also changed its name to Buschian, falling into the Geichon. The antient Inhabitants had the repute of the best Soldiers in the World: they were always in Arms upon the account of the Scythians their Neighbors, who lived by Spoil. And much addicted to Astrology; Zoroaster their King being the supposed Author of that Science, under the name of Magick.

1694. The great historical, geographical and poetical dictionary by Louis Moreri.

Bactria, an ancient Province of Persia between Margiana, Scythia, the Indies, and the Country of the Massagetes. Bactrians, an ancient Province of Persia, who according to Quintus Curtius were the best Soldiers in the World, but rough and brutal, and had nothing of the Politeness of the Persians. Some hold that they kept Dogs to devour such as became useless, either through their great Age, or long Sickness; And it's said that their Wives were well Apparelled, but were not Chaste. They were much addicted to Astrology, and their Zoroaster was supppos'd to be the Author of Magick.