View source for Karachay-Cherkess Republic

==Geography==
The Karachay-Cherkess Republic is a federal subject of [[Russia]], located in the North Caucasus region of Southern Russia. It is part of the North Caucasian Federal District and shares borders with [[Stavropol Krai]], [[Kabardino-Balkar Republic]], and the [[Republic of Abkhazia]]. The republic spans an area of approximately 14,100 square kilometers, with diverse landscapes ranging from plains to high mountain ranges. [[Image:Detail-61834.jpg|thumb|center|A panoramic view of a mountain range in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, with lush greenery in the foreground and snow-capped peaks in the background.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-61835.jpg|thumb|center|A panoramic view of a mountain range in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, with lush greenery in the foreground and snow-capped peaks in the background.|class=only_on_desktop]]

==History==
The history of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic is a tapestry of cultural, political, and social changes. The region has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, with archaeological evidence of early settlements. In the Middle Ages, the region was part of the Khazar Khaganate and later the Mongol Empire. In the 19th century, the region was incorporated into the Russian Empire, and in the 20th century, it became part of the Soviet Union. The Karachay-Cherkess Autonomous Oblast was established in 1922, and it was reorganized into the Karachay-Cherkess Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic in 1957. The republic gained its current status after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

==Demographics==
The Karachay-Cherkess Republic is home to a diverse population, with several ethnic groups cohabiting the region. According to the 2010 Census, the population of the republic was approximately 477,000. The largest ethnic groups are the Karachays, Russians, and Cherkess, followed by the Abazins and Nogais. The official languages are Russian, Karachay-Balkar, and Cherkess. The republic is known for its cultural diversity, with each ethnic group preserving its unique traditions, languages, and customs.

==Economy==
The economy of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic is primarily based on agriculture, industry, and tourism. The region is known for its production of grain, sunflower seeds, and livestock. The industrial sector includes food processing, chemical production, and machinery manufacturing. The republic is rich in mineral resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas. The tourism sector is growing, with the republic's natural beauty and cultural heritage attracting visitors from around the world.

==Culture==
The culture of the Karachay-Cherkess Republic is a blend of the traditions and customs of its diverse ethnic groups. The republic is known for its folk music, dance, and traditional crafts. The Karachays and Cherkess have a rich oral tradition, with epic tales and legends passed down through generations. The republic also hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating its unique heritage.

==Education and Science==
Education in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic is regulated by the Ministry of Education and Science. The republic has a well-developed education system, with numerous schools, vocational institutions, and higher education establishments. The Karachay-Cherkess State University is the leading higher education institution in the republic, offering a wide range of programs in various fields of study. The republic is also home to several research institutions, contributing to advancements in fields such as agriculture, industry, and social sciences.

==Politics==
The Karachay-Cherkess Republic is a presidential republic, with the President serving as the head of state. The legislative power is vested in the National Assembly, which is a bicameral parliament consisting of the Council of the Republic and the People's Assembly. The republic is represented in the Federation Council and the State Duma, the upper and lower houses of the Federal Assembly of Russia, respectively.

==See Also==
* [[North Caucasian Federal District]]
* [[Ethnic groups in Russia]]
* [[Economy of Russia]]
* [[Education in Russia]]

[[Category:Federal subjects of Russia]]
[[Category:North Caucasian Federal District]]
[[Category:Karachay-Cherkess Republic]]