Preface to the Second Edition
Welcome to the second edition of the "Chronicle of Uyghur." In this edition, I embark on a renewed journey through the annals of Uyghur history, culture, and achievements, guided by the illumination of updated narratives, refined details, and enhanced accuracy. As I delve into the intricate tapestry of the Uyghur experience, I navigate the currents of time to bring you a more comprehensive and precise account of their legacy.
The Uyghurs also spelled Uygur or Uighur, have etched their presence across the landscapes of interior Asia. In this edition, I continue to explore their vibrant heritage, which resonates through the corridors of time. Residing predominantly in Eastern Central Asia, within the Uyghur Region, known as Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, they have forged an indelible connection to the heartlands they inhabit. While a smaller contingent finds its haven within the embrace of the Central Asian republics, the collective narrative of the Uyghur people spans borders and defies temporal constraints. As of the early 21st century, approximately 12,000,000 Uyghurs in there, while a combined population of over 500,000 resides in the embrace of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
A cornerstone of Uyghur identity is their language, an integral part of the Turkic group within the Altaic languages. As among the oldest Turkic-speaking communities in Central Asia, their journey finds its earliest roots documented in Chinese records from the 3rd century CE. The 8th century heralded their emergence onto the world stage as they established a kingdom along the Orkhon River, etching their legacy across the vast expanse of north-central Mongolia. Yet, like the meandering river, their journey encountered bends and turns. The year 840 marked a chapter where the Kyrgyz encroached upon their state, catalyzing a migration southwestward to the cradle of the Tengri Tagh (Aka: Tien (Tian) Shan), often referred to as the "Celestial Mountains." In this land, a resilient community fostered other independent kingdoms in the Turfan Depression region and Kashgar Area, only to be swept away by the tides of history with the expansion of the Mongols in the 13th century.
Immersed within the network of oases etched into the valleys and lower slopes of the Tengri Tagh, Pamirs, and related mountain systems, the Uyghurs thrive amidst one of the most arid regions on Earth. The ingenious practice of irrigation, refined over centuries, has enabled preserving precious water resources for their agricultural pursuits. Among the tapestry of their sustenance, wheat, corn (maize), sorghum, grapes and melons reign as primary crops. The cotton plant, a testament to their industrious spirit, has flourished for generations, supporting their textile endeavours. Beyond the agrarian realm, the Uyghurs contribute significantly to petroleum extraction, mining, and urban manufacturing, showcasing their adaptability in changing times.
The "Chronicle of Uyghur," meticulously crafted, unfolds as a chronological embodiment of the past material culture. From the nascent origins to 1985, this chronicle weaves a meaningful narrative, unveiling the rich mosaic of Uyghur history and cultural entities. As I traverse its interactive timeline, I encounter newsworthy events that have shaped the course of the Uyghur journey. Each event selected is a beacon of historical importance, resonating with a continuing significance that reverberates across Uyghur history, culture, and modernity.
In this edition, the "Chronicle of Uyghur" dons a new mantle – that of a Uyghur Factfinder. Beyond the historical continuum, it is a repository of quick, reliable answers to many queries related to Uyghur culture and history. With a more current repository of facts and figures than any comparable publication, this chronicle becomes an invaluable storehouse of general and nuanced knowledge. Presented in a lucid, chronological, and categorized format, the information within is not only accessible but also enriching. Its logical arrangement and comprehensive index render it a paragon of user-friendly information retrieval, spanning over 900 pages encompassing every facet of Uyghur knowledge – from the intricacies of their history and people to the geographical tapestry, facts and figures defining their essence.
As a resource, the "Chronicle of Uyghur" extends its hand to researchers, writers, and seekers of knowledge, serving as a compass in the labyrinth of Uyghur subjects. Its pages unfold as a treasury of current and historical insights, unveiling a panoramic view of Uyghur's existence. In libraries, research chambers, and homes alike, this edition stands as a beacon for those who embark on journeys of discovery. Whether you seek a thorough exploration or a succinct reference, this chronicle aligns with your quest.
In the second edition of the "Chronicle of Uyghur," I embark on a transformative voyage through time and culture. I aspire that these pages not only illuminate history but also serve as an enduring tribute to the spirit of the Uyghur people. As I delve into their stories, achievements, and challenges, I invite you to uncover the essence of the Uyghur journey and to walk alongside them through the corridors of history.
With enriched narratives, refined details, and a renewed commitment to accuracy, I present the second edition of the "Chronicle of Uyghur." This is a testament to the enduring legacy of a people, a heritage, and a journey that continues to shape my understanding of interior Asia and beyond.
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