The origin of the Croats before the Avar expansion into the Balkans in the 6th century is suggested to be North Iran primarily due to linguistic anthropological evidence. Croats were later considered Slavic due to varying influences in time. The modern Croats are still considered to be a Slavic people, which is supported by anthropological, genetical, and ethnological studies. However, the archaeological and other historic evidence on the migration of the Slavic settlers, the character of the native population on the present-day territory of Croatia, and their mutual relationship show diverse historical and cultural influences.