PROGRESS IN GEOGRAPHY ›› 2010, Vol. 29 ›› Issue (6): 716-724.doi: 10.11820/dlkxjz.2010.06.011

• Original Articles • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Spatial Behavior and Its Driving Mechanism of the Minority Migrations: A Case Study of the Hui and Dongxiang Ethnic Groups, Lanzhou City

GAO Xiang,YU Tengfei,SONG Xiangkui,CHENG Huibo   

  1. School of Earth &|Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
  • Received:2009-10-01 Revised:2010-01-01 Online:2010-06-25 Published:2010-06-25

Abstract:

The paper discusses the spatial behaviors and driving mechanism of the ethnic migrations based on extensive field investigation and GIS spatial analysis, taking Hui and Dongxiang ethnic groups in Lanzhou as examples. It is concluded that: (1) The source of minority migration in Lanzhou has a distribution pattern of spatial aggregation. Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture and Zhangjiachuan Hui Autonomous County are the main sources, accounting for 56.47% of the total. (2) It has the characteristics of “living around the temple, working around the temple”. The spatial living pattern of “big gethering and small groups” has been formed to meet the needs of survival and adaptation in urban areas. (3) In the driving forces of minority migration, there are “the pushing forces” such as geographical environment, and socioeconomic gradient caused by regional differences and “the pulling forces” such as urban agglomeration and diffusion, traffic accessibility, the homogeneity of ethnic groups in different regions and the convenience of religious activities. The research results have an important practical significance for promoting the harmonious development of urban ethnic relations, urban planning, population management and community development.

Key words: driving mechanism, Hui and Dongxiang ethnic groups, Lanzhou city, spatial behavior