Map Introduction

As a dependent state under the jurisdiction of the Chief Clerk of the Western Regions during the Western Jin Dynasty, the historical evolution of the Wusun kingdom can be divided into three stages:

Continuity from the Han to the Western Jin

During the reign of Emperor Xuan of Han (around 60 BC), the Wusun came under the administration of the Protectorate of the Western Regions. Through marital alliances, such as those involving Princess Xijun and Princess Jieyou, they established close relations with the Han Dynasty. From the Eastern Han through the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties periods, the Wusun maintained ties with the Central Plains (for example, by sending hostages to Luoyang) but gradually declined. After invasions by the Rouran, the Wusun were forced to migrate westward to the Pamir Mountains, eventually forming new settlements in the Ili River Valley.

Characteristics of Western Jin Administration

The Western Jin continued the Eastern Han system of conferring titles on the Wusun rulers. However, due to frequent political changes, actual control over the Wusun weakened. The Wusun retained their nomadic traditions, with their royal court located in the Ili River Valley. Archaeological discoveries in the region reveal cultural remains dating from the Han to the Tang Dynasty.

Later Evolution

By the Northern and Southern Dynasties period, the main body of the Wusun had been integrated into the structure of the Great Yuz (the Great Horde) of the Kazakh people. However, elements of their language and customs still retained characteristics of the ancient Wusun. Modern archaeological findings confirm that ancient Wusun tomb complexes contain remains from the Han-Jin to Tang periods, providing important evidence for the study of their history.