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Inter-Asian Relations and Lhasa Muslim Communities: A Historical Perspective from 1600 to 1960

Easton Powell

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Published in Islamic Shangri La: Inter Asian Relations And Lhasa S Muslim Communities 1600 To 1960

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The Muslim communities of Lhasa, Tibet have played a significant role in the history of the city and the region. Their presence dates back to the 17th century, when they were brought to Tibet as merchants and traders. Over time, they became an integral part of Lhasa's society and economy, and played a key role in the city's trade and cultural exchange with Central Asia and other parts of Asia.

This article will explore the history of the Lhasa Muslim communities from 1600 to 1960. It will discuss their origins, their role in Lhasa's economy and society, and their interactions with other religious and ethnic groups in the city. It will also examine the impact of Chinese, British, and Indian presence on the Lhasa Muslim communities.

Islamic Shangri-La: Inter-Asian Relations and Lhasa's Muslim Communities, 1600 to 1960

by David G. Atwill

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Origins of the Lhasa Muslim Communities

The first Muslims arrived in Lhasa in the early 17th century. They were mostly merchants from Central Asia, who came to Tibet to trade in tea, wool, and other goods. These merchants settled in Lhasa and established their own community, which became known as the "Muslim Quarter." The Muslim Quarter was located in the northeastern part of the city, and was home to a mosque, a school, and a number of shops and businesses.

Over time, the Muslim community in Lhasa grew in size and influence. By the 18th century, they had become one of the most important trading communities in the city. They were also active in the city's political and cultural life, and played a key role in the development of Lhasa's unique urban culture.

Role in Lhasa's Economy and Society

The Muslim communities of Lhasa played a vital role in the city's economy and society. They were primarily engaged in trade, and controlled a large share of the city's commerce. They also played a role in the city's manufacturing and handicrafts industries, and were known for their skill in making carpets, textiles, and jewelry.

In addition to their economic activities, the Muslim communities of Lhasa also played a significant role in the city's social and cultural life. They were active in the city's religious festivals and celebrations, and were known for their hospitality and generosity. They also played a role in the development of Lhasa's unique urban culture, and were known for their contributions to the city's music, art, and literature.

Interactions with Other Religious and Ethnic Groups

The Muslim communities of Lhasa interacted with a variety of other religious and ethnic groups in the city. They had close ties with the Tibetan Buddhist community, and were often involved in the city's religious festivals and celebrations. They also had close ties with the Chinese community in Lhasa, and were often involved in trade and other economic activities with the Chinese.

In general, the Muslim communities of Lhasa had peaceful and cooperative relations with other religious and ethnic groups in the city. However, there were occasional periods of tension and conflict. For example, in the 18th century, there was a brief period of persecution of the Muslim community by the Tibetan government. However, this persecution was eventually ended, and the Muslim community was able to rebuild its community and continue its role in Lhasa's society.

Impact of Chinese, British, and Indian Presence

The presence of Chinese, British, and Indian powers in Tibet had a significant impact on the Lhasa Muslim communities. The Chinese first entered Tibet in the 18th century, and gradually increased their control over the country. The British and Indians also established a presence in Tibet in the 19th and 20th centuries, respectively.

The presence of these foreign powers led to a number of changes in the Lhasa Muslim communities. For example, the Chinese government imposed a number of restrictions on the Muslim community, including restrictions on their religious practices and their economic activities. The British and Indians also had a significant impact on the Lhasa Muslim communities, introducing new ideas and technologies to the city.

Despite the challenges posed by the presence of foreign powers, the Lhasa Muslim communities continued to play an important role in the city's economy and society. They were able to adapt to the changing circumstances and continue to contribute to the development of Lhasa's unique urban culture.

The Muslim communities of Lhasa have played a significant role in the history of the city and the region for over 400 years. They have been an integral part of Lhasa's society and economy, and have played a key role in the city's trade and cultural exchange with Central Asia and other parts of Asia. Despite the challenges posed by the presence of foreign powers, the Lhasa Muslim communities have continued to thrive and contribute to the development of Lhasa's unique urban culture.

Islamic Shangri-La: Inter-Asian Relations and Lhasa's Muslim Communities, 1600 to 1960

by David G. Atwill

4.3 out of 5