Sakha Republic

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Sakha Republic Fauna

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Map of Russia - Yakutsk time zone

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Sakha Republic (Russian: Республика Саха (Якутия), Respublika Sakha (Yakutiya)), also known as Yakutia, is a federal subject of Russia, located in the northeastern part of the country. Its capital and largest city is Yakutsk. With an area of over 3 million square kilometers, it is the largest subnational governing body by area in the world. The Sakha Republic is known for its extreme climate, with the Verkhoyansk Range being one of the coldest places on earth.

Geography

The Sakha Republic is situated in the Siberian region of Russia, covering roughly 20% of Russia's land area. It stretches to the East Siberian Sea and the Laptev Sea in the north and borders Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Magadan Oblast, Khabarovsk Krai, Amur Oblast, Zabaykalsky Krai, Irkutsk Oblast, and Krasnoyarsk Krai. The territory is predominantly covered by permafrost and features the Lena River, one of the longest rivers in the world, which flows through Yakutsk.

Climate

The climate in the Sakha Republic is classified as a continental climate, with long, extremely cold winters and short, warm summers. The Oymyakon valley in the Verkhoyansk Range is noted for having the lowest temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere, where temperatures can drop below -50°C (-58°F).

Demographics

As of the latest census, the population of the Sakha Republic includes a majority of ethnic Yakuts, along with Russian, Evenk, and other indigenous minorities. The official languages are Russian and Sakha. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and crafts, particularly those made from mammoth ivory.

Economy

The economy of the Sakha Republic is primarily based on the extraction of natural resources, such as diamonds, gold, and other minerals. It is home to the world's largest diamond mine, which significantly contributes to the global diamond supply. Other sectors include agriculture, particularly horse and cattle breeding, and the production of traditional crafts.

History

The history of the Sakha Republic is marked by the early presence of the Yakut people, who migrated to the region from the Lake Baikal area in the 13th century. The territory came under Russian control in the 17th century, following the arrival of Cossack explorers. The Soviet era brought significant industrial development, along with challenges related to the forced collectivization and resettlement of the indigenous population.

Culture

The cultural life in the Sakha Republic is a blend of traditional Yakut practices and Russian influences. The Ysyakh festival, celebrating the Yakut New Year at the summer solstice, is a key event featuring folk music, dance, and sports. The region is also known for its epic storytelling tradition, particularly the Olonkho, a UNESCO-recognized masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity.

Environmental Concerns

The Sakha Republic faces several environmental challenges, including the effects of climate change on its permafrost, which threatens infrastructure and traditional ways of life. Forest fires during the dry summer months also pose a significant risk to its vast boreal forests.