China is an incredibly inclusive country, reflected not only in its long history and rich culture but also in the diversity of its 56 ethnic groups.
Each ethnic group possesses its unique culture, language, and customs, collectively forming a diverse tapestry of China.
Among these numerous ethnicities is a special group known as the Russian ethnic group.
The Russian people have distinct physical features compared to most Chinese, typically characterized by red beards and green eyes, making them stand out among China's ethnic groups.
In contrast to other groups, the Russian ethnic culture and lifestyle are notably different, telling stories closely related to Russia.
Though their population is not large, they have played an indispensable role at critical moments in Chinese history, especially during the War of Resistance against Japan, where their contributions are particularly memorable.
So, what is the formation and history of the Russian ethnic group? It all traces back to the Qing Dynasty.
At that time, a series of military conflicts occurred between Tsarist Russia and the Qing Empire.
Some Russian soldiers were captured and taken to Beijing, with some choosing to settle there.
As time passed, more Russian soldiers were captured, eventually integrating into life in Beijing, forming the earliest Russian community.
These initial Russians not only looked different from the locals but also had varied surnames, such as Wei, Yao, He, Luo, and Tian.
In the historical context of the Qing Dynasty, the formation of these groups was closely tied to the social changes of the time.
While the number of these Russian captives was insufficient to form a large community, their descendants gradually increased and intertwined with Chinese history.
In the subsequent historical process, the growth of the Russian ethnic group was closely linked to Tsarist aggression against China and domestic turmoil.
When Tsarist Russia instigated wars at its northern and western borders, many missionaries, merchants, and farmers came along with the army and chose to stay in China after the wars.
These individuals, seeking to escape the unequal rule in Russia, abandoned their original nationalities and became part of China, starting anew.
Russians are dispersed throughout different regions in China, particularly in Xinjiang, Heilongjiang, Inner Mongolia, Jilin, and Liaoning, with their presence felt in various corners.
Additionally, some Russians live in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin. They are not only descendants of early immigrants but also include offspring from Sino-Russian intermarriages, further enriching the composition of the Russian group.
Between 1932 and 1938, many overseas Chinese settled in the Soviet Far East, intermarried with locals, and returned to China with their families.
These individuals and their descendants took root in China, becoming part of the Russian ethnic group.
Today, the Russian population in China has surpassed 15,000, with slightly more women than men.
Though this number may seem insignificant in the context of China's total population, it reflects the ongoing development of the Russian ethnic group's imprint in history.
Originally, the Russian ethnic group was not called by this name; they were referred to as "naturalized people" when living in Xinjiang.
It wasn't until the founding of New China that they officially adopted the name Russian ethnic group.
This change in nomenclature not only redefined their identity but also affirmed their contributions to Chinese history.
In 1935, the Russian ethnic group proudly declared, "We are Chinese; China is our only homeland!" They were willing to fight alongside other ethnic groups for China's unity and independence.
In the tumult of history, the courage and fearless spirit of the Russian ethnic group are deeply moving.
Historically, Russians have been seen as a warlike nation, and the Russian ethnic group within China has inherited this tradition.
During the chaotic period before the founding of New China, when Xinjiang was in turmoil, the "Naturalized Army" bravely stood up, forming three regiments to join other forces in repelling the Gansu warlord Ma Zhongying's troops.
They fought not only for survival but also for peace and stability in Xinjiang.
However, with the invasion of the Japanese army, this ethnic group faced another challenge.
During the War of Resistance against Japan, the Russian ethnic group chose not to retreat but actively participated in the struggle, rising together with the people of Xinjiang against the invaders.
They ventured out of Xinjiang into Northeast China, fighting alongside Chinese troops, demonstrating unparalleled courage and determination.
Many Russians, despite being in China, remained concerned about the situation in Russia.
At this time, Russia was also unstable, facing war with Germany, yet these ordinary citizens responded to the call of the Russian ethnic group in China, resolutely coming to help in the anti-Japanese effort.
This profound national sentiment reflects their desire for freedom and peace.
During this historical period, a notable figure named Lin Hu emerged.
He was a descendant of a Chinese and Russian union, holding a steadfast Chinese heart, risking his life during the War of Resistance to ensure logistical support for the rear.
Much of the material he brought from Russia was arranged by him to reach the front lines, supporting the anti-Japanese struggle.
His heroic deeds inspired countless individuals and became a symbol of patriotism for the Russian ethnic group.
The brutality of the War of Resistance brought not only national pain but also shattered many families.
Countless young Russian men sacrificed their lives for the country; while exact figures are hard to tally, unofficial records still indicate that thousands perished in the war.
Though this number may seem small compared to other military sacrifices, for a small group like the Russian ethnic group, it was undoubtedly a significant loss, with many families losing fathers, husbands, and sons.
To commemorate these heroes who sacrificed for the nation, after the founding of New China, the government decided to officially rename the "naturalized people" as the "Russian ethnic group," marking not only the affirmation of their identity but also recognition of their historical contributions.
China embraced them, and the Russian people found a sense of belonging on this land, cherishing the hard-won peaceful life.
As time goes by, the Russian ethnic group has gradually integrated into Chinese society, with many traditional customs and cultures fading across generations.
They have begun to actively learn and use Chinese, participating in local social life.
While they may still use their original language within families, speaking Chinese in public has become a consensus, reflecting their recognition and integration into Chinese culture.
Today, the Russian ethnic group in China represents a model of multi-ethnic cultural blending.
Their history and contributions showcase the importance of national unity and harmonious coexistence.
Looking ahead, we hope the Russian ethnic group will continue to thrive on this land, further enriching China's cultural diversity and jointly writing a more glorious chapter for the Chinese nation.
Whether in terms of historical heritage or future vision, the Russian ethnic group remains an indispensable part of the Chinese family.
Comentarios