The article analyses the history of the Aral Sea level change in the Middle Ages and Modern Times. On the basis of historical sources and scientific researches the stages of sea level rise and fall and their connection with natural-geological, socio-political and anthropogenic factors are highlighted. In particular, the historical and dynamic state of the sea level has been studied on the basis of changes in the flow directions of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, the development and decline of irrigation systems, the Mongol invasion, landscape and climatic conditions of the 16th-19th centuries and the period of the Russian Empire.

Aral Sea, geological processes, water level, Amu Darya, Syr Darya, water regime, irrigation, anthropogenic impact.

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