The Construction of Railways in Central Asia (1876–1917) and Their Impact on Migration Processes

Abstract

This study explores the influence of railway construction in Central Asia during the Russian Empire (1876–1917) on economic, social, and demographic changes, particularly migration patterns. The railways facilitated the relocation of Russian-speaking populations, officials, workers, and military personnel, significantly impacting the national composition, social structure, and economic development of the region. The construction of railways, notably the Trans-Caspian and Trans-Aral Railways, promoted the growth of Russian settlements, which altered the demographic makeup and social dynamics of Central Asia. This research uses a combination of historical analysis, archival records, and statistical data to examine the relationship between infrastructure development and migration, shedding light on the socio-political processes that shaped the region during this period.