The Sogdians at Dunhuang in Han Dynasty

Abstract

This research focuses on the relationship between people from the Sogdian Civilization and the city Dunhuang, including the Sogdians’ different identities when they arrived at Dunhuang, such as ambassadors, guests, Zhi Zi, and merchants. The Sogdians have played a significant role in the material and cultural exchanges on the Silk Road since the Western Han Dynasty, yet seldom do people know or learn about the Sogdian Civilization. Therefore, the purpose of this essay is to inform people about the Sogdians’ nonnegligible contribution and mutual impact on Chinese history and culture. The paper mainly uses quotations from Chinese historical records and articles written by modern scholars, with some sources related to archaeological discoveries and methods.