Chinese Tatars

The Chinese Tatars are a small ethnic group in China, recognized as one of the 56 ethnic groups officially recognized by the People's Republic of China. They primarily reside in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, particularly in the cities of Ürümqi and Yining.

History

The Chinese Tatars are descendants of the Volga Tatars and Siberian Tatars who migrated to China during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their migration was largely driven by political and economic factors, including the expansion of the Russian Empire and subsequent social upheavals.

Language

The primary language spoken by the Chinese Tatars is the Tatar language, which belongs to the Kipchak branch of the Turkic languages. Many Chinese Tatars are also fluent in Mandarin Chinese, which is the official language of China.

Religion

The majority of Chinese Tatars practice Islam, which plays a central role in their cultural and social life. They are predominantly Sunni Muslims, following the Hanafi school of thought.

Culture

Chinese Tatar culture is a blend of traditional Tatar customs and Chinese influences. They celebrate traditional Tatar festivals such as Sabantuy, and their cuisine includes dishes like chak-chak and kazy.

Demographics

According to the latest census, the population of Chinese Tatars is relatively small, numbering around 5,000 individuals. They are one of the smallest ethnic minorities in China.

See also

• Ethnic minorities in China
• Tatars
• Xinjiang

References

• "The Tatars". China.org.cn. Retrieved 2023-10-15.

External links

• Chinese Tatars on WikiMD