Autonomous Republic in central USSR, on the
Caspian Sea; area 75,900 sq km/29,300 sq mi;
population (1986) 325,000; capital Elista.
Industry is mainly agricultural. It was
settled by migrants from China in the 17th
century, and the autonomous republic was
abolished 1943-57 because of alleged
collaboration of the people with the Germans
during the siege of Stalingrad but restored
1958.