Central Asian Modern History

Central Asian modern history is marked by the decline of empires, such as the Mongols and the Russian Empire, leading to the region's incorporation into the Soviet Union. Post-World War II, Central Asian republics experienced industrialization and imposed collectivization, affecting culture and society. Following the USSR's collapse in 1991, countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan gained independence, facing challenges of nation-building, economic transition, and regional geopolitics. Today, Central Asia navigates relationships with global powers, including China and Russia, while grappling with issues of identity, security, and resource management in a rapidly changing world.