East Turkestan was one the main trade routes between Central Asia and China in the 19^th century and was considered an important part of the Great Silk Road. The Russian Empire, realizing the strategic importance of this region, sought to explore trade routes and expand its economic activities there. This article analyzes the economic and geopolitical importance of East Turkestan based on the diplomatic trips of Mikhail Butin in 1870-1871 and the Kashgar expedition of Nikolai Kuleshov in 1875. Comparative analysis-Kuleshov`s information is compared with sources about Butin`s embassy. East Turkestan played an important role as one of the trading centers of Central Asia in the second half of the 19^th century. Trade routes between China, Russia and India passed through this area. In particular, the strategic location of Kashgar made it a major trade hub. This article analyzes the trade routes of East Turkestan in the second half of the 19^th century, their economic significance, and the dynamics of change. The main source is Butin`s embassy of 1871 and his reports. Cartographic analysis –the strategic importance of the routes is shown by analyzing 19^th century maps and the changes in trade routes. Economic Analysis –The impact of trade routes on the economy and the dynamics of Russian and Chinese trade through Kashkar are examined.

East Turkestan, Nikolai Kuleshov, Mikhail Butin, Russian Empire, Kashkar, Kokand, diplomatic and trade relations, embassy, trade routes, shopping centers, dinamics, expedition

Туркестанский Сборник -43 том, С-Петербург 1867-1887 г.

Куропаткин А.Н Кашгария: Историко-географический очерк страны, её военные силы, промышленность и торговля. С-Петербургъ-1879.

В.Кулешов, запись со слов Х.А.Чанышевого “Русское посольство в Кашгар в 1875 году”-Викитеки 14 января 2025 г.

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