Best of Mongolia

Since ancient times the natural and climatic conditions of Mongolia were suited for nomadic animal husbandry and hunting management. But when Buddhism spread across the country in the 16th century, many monasteries were built and accordingly some portion of the population settled down permanently or semi-permanently. Before Buddhism, Shamanism was the traditional and most widely belief system practiced. Until today, these two forms of spirituality are still co-existing and practiced. From 1921 to 1990, Mongolia was a Communist country and all social sectors including economy, culture, and politics were directly dependent on the Soviet Union. All religious practices were abolished in Mongolia in 1973 during the communist purges. During this dark period, many Buddhist temples were destroyed and monks were persecuted and assassinated. Citizens faced multiple prohibitions preventing them from moving freely within their own country, political leaders pushing for independence were killed, and families starved for years while surviving with the minimum. With the democratic revolution and the massive request of students, workers, monks, youth, and democratic leaders, Mongolia attained independence and democracy in 1991. We were excited to hear stories and memories about the recent political and life changes of this nation from people that actually when through them. Mongolia’s history has been shaped by endurance of conflicts and economical domination of two neighboring countries, China and Russia. Until today, despite the booming mining industry in Mongolia and it’s rising economy, the nation still depends on Russia and China to access imported food and oil necessary to keep the country running.