Population Distribution and Ethnic Processes in the Territory of Uzbekistan During the Primitive Communal Period

Abstract

This article examines the spatial limits of population distribution and the development of early ethnic processes in the territory of present-day Uzbekistan during the primitive communal period. The study is based on the analysis of archaeological, geographical, and historical sources and applies a historical–geographical and comparative approach. The results show that early human settlement was concentrated mainly in river valleys and foothill zones with favorable ecological conditions, while deserts and high mountain areas were only seasonally used. Migration and cultural interaction played a central role in shaping early cultural identities and social differentiation.