Oasis Identities: Uyghur Nationalism Along China's Silk Road

by Justin Jon Rudelson

The rising tide of ethnic nationalism that has swept across Central Asia in the past decade has energized efforts by the Chinese government to win favor among its ethnic minorities. As a result, China has granted the Uyghurs―a Turkic Muslim people who inhabit the oases of China's far northwestern province, Xinjiang―special previledges, opening up international borders, reestablishing long-severed transborder contacts and trade networks, and allowing intellectuals the liberty to construct their own versions of Uyghur history.

From the outset, however, this process has been problematic, heightening intra and interoasis tensions. Greater freedoms for the Uyghur people have threatened China's economic, ideological, and military control over this vital region and have produced resistance movements and separatist terror attacks. In this study, a leading expert on Central Aisa explores the history, culture, politics, and geography of Xinjiang's oasis communities, shedding new light on the competing ideas, symbols, and allegiances that make up the many diverse Uyghur identities.

Drawing upon extensive fieldwork in the Xinjiang oasis of Turpan, Justin Jon Rudelson assesses the factors that undermine the creation of a pan-Uyghur identity. He explains the historical and contemporary impact of the geography of the region, where oases are relatively isolated from one another; the fragmented visions and cross-cutting allegiances of the three major social groups (intellectuals, peasants, and merchants); and the inability of the Uyghur elite who spearheaded the nationalist movement to transcend their own provincialism, thereby engendering rival oasis identities and subverting ethnic unity.

Oasis identities is a vivid, ground-breaking work offering insight into not only the trumoil besetting this important but little-studied region but also the barriers facing all emerging nations and cultures struggling to define their national identities.

Genres: History, China, Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published December 30, 1997

Reviews

[Rick Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fascinating, though admittedly dated, overview of the political situation of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang, China. The author spent time doing his anthropological work in Xinjiang in the late 1990s and into the beginning of 1990, although there is some chronicling of developments in Xinjiang after the study ended, through the mid-late 1990s.

There is a lot of fascinating detail on Uyghur culture and history here, as well as some bits of literature, and biographical sketches of important Uyghur leaders and intellectuals.

The author's main point, though, is that the issue of Uyghur nationalism is more complicated than it seems to be on the surface. The author presents two major factors that complicate the issue. The first is the geography of the region, which has historically favored the different oases that make up Xinjiang to face outward for trade and cultural exchange rather than promoting trade and exchange between the oases. Thus, the "Oasis Identities" of the title. In addition, the author examines how class differences between working class, middle class, and intellectual Uyghurs promote different perspectives on pan-Turkic identity, the role of Islam, and the relationship with the Chinese state.

Readers interested in gaining insights into recent developments in Xinjiang will find this to be an incomplete picture, but excellent and concise background reading.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

East Turkestan

This is an outstanding exploration of the Uyghur people in East Turkestan and their harrowing struggle against the relentless assault on their culture by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This book offers an immersive and enlightening journey into the heart of the Uyghur community, shedding light on their rich heritage and the challenges they face.

I found Oasis Identities to be an invaluable source of knowledge, providing a deep understanding of the Uyghur people and their remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Rudelson's meticulous research and insightful analysis allow readers to develop a profound appreciation for their struggles, aspirations, and the significance of preserving their unique identity.

The book serves as a poignant wake-up call, revealing the grave human rights violations and cultural erasure inflicted upon the Uyghur population by the CCP. Through its pages, I gained a wealth of knowledge about the historical and sociopolitical context surrounding the Uyghur plight, enabling me to empathize with their experiences on a profoundly human level.

I cannot stress enough the importance of reading Oasis Identities. This timely and thought-provoking book shines a spotlight on a deeply urgent issue that demands global attention and action. It acts as a powerful tool in amplifying the voices of the Uyghur people and shedding light on their struggle for cultural preservation and human rights.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Uyghur crisis and the resilience of their identity. The insights gained from Oasis Identities will deepen your empathy and inspire you to engage in the urgent dialogue surrounding these crucial human rights issues.

In conclusion, I must express its significance and impact. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in delving into the complexities of Uyghur nationalism and the challenges faced by this marginalized community. Let this book be your guiding light as you navigate the rich tapestry of Uyghur culture and join the crucial discourse surrounding their plight.

4.4/5