|
Central Asia is a region of Asia. Various definitions of its exact composition exist.
Definitions
Under one definition, Central Asia covers about 9,029,000 km2, or 21% of the continent. Under this definition Central Asia includes the following countries:
A second definition includes:
A third definition describes Central Asia as consisting of only the former Soviet Central Asian Republics:
- Kazakhstan,
- Kyrgyzstan,
- Uzbekistan,
- Tajikistan and
- Turkmenistan.
History
In ancient times, Central Asia was home to many nomadic peoples such as
Over the last five centuries, most of this region was gradually conquered by the Russian and the Chinese empires, with the British empire establishing itself in India to the south of the region.
During the 20th century, most of the lands of Central Asia were part of the Communist-led Soviet Union, which broke up in 1991. The exceptions were Mongolia and Chinese-controlled areas such as Xinjiang. These nations have moved away from the Communist system, and now have a variety of political systems ranging from somewhat democratic to highly authoritarian. However, most have retained close ties to Russia, which led the Soviet Union. Most Central Asian nations are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
Geography
Central Asia is a region of high plateaus and mountains (Tian Shan), vast deserts (Kara Kum, Kyzyl Kum, Taklamakan), and treeless, grassy plains. Much of the land is too dry or too rugged for farming. A majority of the people earn a living by herding livestock. Industrial activity centers in the region's cities.
Rivers include: Amu Darya, Syr Darya, Hari Rud
Major bodies of water include: Aral Sea, Lake Balkhash
Demographics
By the most inclusive definition, more than 80 million people live in Central Asia, or about 2% of the continent's population. Of the regions of Asia, only North Asia has fewer people. It has a population density of 9 persons per km2.
External links
|
