Hami history

The city of Hami, also known by its ancient Uyghur name Kumul, boasts a rich and centuries-old history inextricably linked to the Silk Road. This desert oasis was not merely a dot on the map, but a strategically vital center fought over by numerous dynasties and peoples. The settlement's history dates back to ancient times. In Chinese sources from the Han Dynasty (206 BC — 220 AD), this area is mentioned as "Yiwu" or "Yiwulu," where military-agricultural colonies already existed to supply troops and caravans. Over the centuries, the city bore different names: during the Tang Dynasty it was called Yizhou, and later, with the arrival of the Uyghurs, it became known as Kumul. The name "Hami" became established during the Ming Dynasty.

Hami owes its development to its unique location. The city emerged in a fertile oasis on the eastern edge of Xinjiang, becoming a key point on the northern route of the Silk Road. Situated between the desert and the Tian Shan mountains, Hami was a natural resting place for caravans and was long considered the only gateway from inland China to the west. Thanks to this, it became an important transit hub where merchants exchanged silk, tea, and spices from the east for horses, glass, and gold from the west.

Due to its strategic significance, control over Hami was crucial for many empires, from the Chinese Han Dynasty to the Turkic Khaganates and the Mongols, and the local fortress served as an important border outpost. Since ancient times, Hami has been not only a trading center but also an agricultural one. The fertile lands of the oasis allowed for the cultivation of grains, cotton, and fruits. The region gained special fame for its renowned Hami melons, which were prized far beyond its borders. As a crossroads of civilizations, the city absorbed elements of Chinese, Turkic, Sogdian, and Mongol cultures, which is reflected in its traditions and art.

Key Dates in the History of Hami

• 1st millennium BC: Foundation of the ancient settlement of Kumuda, which Chinese sources associate with the "Lesser Yuezhi" people.
• 206 BC – 220 AD: During the Han Dynasty era, the oasis, known as Yiwu, becomes a strategic point in the struggle against the Xiongnu for control of the Silk Road.
• 630 AD: During the Tang Dynasty, the territory, renamed Yizhou, becomes part of the Chinese empire following the defeat of the Eastern Turkic Khaganate.
• 13th century: Hami (then known as Qamil) becomes part of the Mongol Empire of Genghis Khan and his descendants.
• Late 14th century: Establishment of the Mongol principality of Kara Del, which soon enters into tributary relations with the Chinese Ming Dynasty.
• 1696: Local rulers accept the suzerainty of the Qing Dynasty, leading to the formation of the semi-autonomous Kumul Khanate.
• 1759: Following the defeat of the Dzungar Khanate by the Qing Empire, the Hami Commissariat is officially established in this territory.
• 1884: After Xinjiang is transformed into a province, the Kumul Khanate retains its vassal status.
• 1913: Following the Xinhai Revolution, the administrative unit is transformed into Hami County.
• 1930: After the death of the last ruler, Maqsud Shah, the Kumul Khanate is abolished.
• 1950s: Modern industrial development of the region begins, including the construction of the Lanzhou–Xinjiang Railway passing through Hami.
• 2016: Hami Prefecture is officially upgraded to a prefecture-level city, and the city itself becomes Yizhou District.

Development Stages of Hami

The development of Hami, one of the key cities in eastern Xinjiang, has been defined by its strategic position, rich natural resources, and major infrastructure projects. Below are the main milestones that have shaped the modern appearance of the city.

• Center on the Silk Road. For many centuries, Hami (or Kumul) was a crucial oasis and transit point on the northern route of the Silk Road. Its location made the city the "Gateway to the West," fostering cultural exchange and economic prosperity.
• Foundation of the Kumul Khanate (1696–1930). During the Qing Dynasty, the semi-autonomous Kumul Khanate was formed. This status allowed the region to preserve its unique local culture and governance system while remaining an important link within the Chinese empire.
• Construction of the Lanzhou–Xinjiang Railway (1952–1962). The laying of this main line became a turning point in Hami's modern history, integrating it into the country's economic system. The railway significantly simplified the transport of resources and goods, giving a powerful boost to industrial development.
• Industrial Resource Exploitation. The 20th century saw the active development of rich mineral deposits in the Hami Basin. Coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, and oil are mined here, transforming the city into a major industrial hub.
• Agricultural Development. The region is historically famous for its unique "Hamigua" melons, which have become its hallmark. Modern development of the agro-industrial complex and pastoral livestock farming has strengthened the city's economy.
• Creation of a Renewable Energy Base. Thanks to strong winds and abundant sunlight, in the 21st century, Hami has become one of China's key centers for wind and solar energy production. The construction of large wind and solar power stations is a priority development direction.
• Launch of High-Speed Rail (2014). The opening of the Lanzhou–Urumqi section passing through Hami reduced travel time and further consolidated its status as an important transport hub within the "Belt and Road" initiative.
• Transformation into a Prefecture-Level City (2016). The elevation of administrative status to a prefecture-level city reflected Hami's growing economic and strategic importance in the region, promoting further urbanization and investment attraction.

The architecture of the city of Hami, located on the ancient Silk Road, represents a unique blend of cultures and eras. As the eastern gateway to Xinjiang, the city has absorbed both Chinese and Central Asian architectural traditions over the centuries, creating its distinctive appearance.

The most striking example of historical development is the architectural ensemble of the Mausoleum of the Kumul Khans (also known as the Tombs of the Hami Kings), built around 1840. This complex serves as the burial place for seven generations of rulers and their wives. Its appearance harmoniously combines Islamic and traditional Chinese styles. The domed mausoleum, clad in glazed brick, and the large mosque with painted ceilings and carved columns reflect the canons of Islamic architecture. At the same time, pavilions with curved eaves and brackets demonstrate the clear influence of Chinese palace architecture.

Another significant object is the Palace of the Uyghur King of Hami, which is considered one of the largest palace structures in Xinjiang. It was built with the involvement of Han masters from Beijing, which explains the fusion of styles. The building is surrounded by high walls and is distinguished by observation platforms, glazed tiles, and brackets characteristic of Chinese architecture.

Modern Hami is actively developing, and alongside historical monuments, new residential quarters, industrial facilities, and transport hubs are being erected here. This contrast between the ancient adobe buildings of the old city, exquisite mausoleums, and modern urban development reflects the centuries-old history and dynamic present of this desert oasis.

Notable Figures in the History of Hami

The history of Hami (Kumul) is closely linked with the names of rulers, military commanders, and leaders whose actions determined the fate of this strategically important oasis over the centuries. Below are key figures who left a significant mark on the city's history.

• Abdullah Beg (reign: 1697–1709) — founder and first ruler of the Kumul Khanate. In 1696, he accepted vassalage from the Qing Empire, which allowed him and his descendants to rule the region with semi-autonomous rights for over two centuries. His decision laid the foundation for a long period of stability and Hami's unique status within China.
• Muhammad Shah (reign: 1813–1867) — seventh ruler of the Kumul Khanate. His long reign occurred during a difficult period, but he managed to maintain control over the khanate. However, his policy of high taxes and forced labor caused discontent and led to uprisings.
• Maqsud Shah (1864–1930) — last Khan of the Kumul Khanate. He ruled from 1882 to 1930. His death became a turning point in the city's history: the central government abolished the khanate, which provoked the large-scale Kumul Rebellion.
• Hoja Niyaz (1889–1941) — one of the main leaders of the Kumul Rebellion. A native of Hami, he led the movement against the abolition of the khanate and the policies of the Chinese authorities. Later, he became the first president of the short-lived First East Turkestan Republic, playing a significant role in the Uyghur national liberation movement.
• Yulbars Khan (1889–1971) — military commander and one of the leaders of the Kumul Rebellion. Having started his service at the court of the last Khan, after his death, he led the armed struggle together with Hoja Niyaz. His actions had a huge influence on the course of events in Xinjiang in the 1930s.