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The Forgotten Empire of the Kushans: A Story of Conquest and Defeat
The Kushan Empire ruled Bactria and northern India from roughly the 1st to 3rd centuries CE. Kanishka, Silk Road trade, Buddhist art and the Sasanian defeat.
Persia and Asia
The Kushan Empire and the Tarim Basin mummies.
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The Kushan Empire ruled Bactria and northern India from roughly the 1st to 3rd centuries CE. Kanishka, Silk Road trade, Buddhist art and the Sasanian defeat.
The Tarim Basin mummies are naturally preserved Bronze Age bodies from the Taklamakan desert in Xinjiang, including the Beauty of Xiaohe. Where they were found.
Genetic studies, including a 2021 study, suggest the Tarim Basin mummies descended from local ancient populations, not recent migrants, and correct older claims.
The Xiaohe cemetery in Xinjiang held boat-shaped coffins, wool clothing, felt hats and grave goods that reveal how Bronze Age Tarim communities lived.
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