Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region

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Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region
General Information
Name Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region
Native Name
新疆维吾尔自治区
Other Names
Settlement Type Autonomous region
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total 24870000
Density auto per km²
Area
Total 1664900 km²
Land km²
Water km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard UTC+8
DST UTC


The Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), commonly referred to as Xinjiang, is an autonomous region in the northwest of the People's Republic of China. It is the largest province-level division of China and the eighth-largest country subdivision in the world, spanning over 1.6 million square kilometers. Xinjiang shares borders with eight countries, including Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.

History[edit | edit source]

Xinjiang has been a crossroads of various peoples and civilizations, and it is known for its rich history that dates back to the Silk Road, which facilitated trade and cultural exchange between the East and the West. The region came under Chinese control during the Qing Dynasty in the 18th century and was later declared an autonomous region in 1955.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Xinjiang's vast and diverse landscape ranges from high mountains and vast deserts to lush river valleys. Notable geographical features include the Tian Shan mountains, the Taklamakan Desert, and the Turpan Depression, one of the lowest points on earth.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Xinjiang is primarily based on natural resources, including oil, natural gas, and various minerals. Agriculture also plays a significant role, with Xinjiang being a major producer of cotton, wheat, and fruits in China. In recent years, the region has seen significant development in sectors such as technology and renewable energy, particularly solar energy.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Xinjiang is home to several ethnic groups, with the Uyghur people being the largest. Other ethnic groups include Han Chinese, Kazakhs, and Hui. The region's demographic composition has been a subject of significant political and social dynamics.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Xinjiang's culture is a rich blend of Central Asian and Chinese influences, with significant contributions from its diverse ethnic communities. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine from the region reflect this cultural amalgamation. Uyghur music, for instance, is renowned for its distinctive use of the Dutar, a traditional musical instrument.

Issues and Controversies[edit | edit source]

Xinjiang has been at the center of international attention due to concerns over human rights and the treatment of the Uyghur population. Issues such as cultural assimilation, surveillance, and the political re-education camps have been widely reported and debated in the international community.

See also[edit | edit source]

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