From national awakening to independence

The “Uzbekistan in the 20th Century” exhibition at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is dedicated to presenting the country’s statehood history and the complex stages of societal development throughout the 20th century on a scholarly and theoretical basis. This section covers an area of 200 square meters, with historical events displayed interactively through 3D compositions and the “Wall of Time”.

The main objective of the exhibition is to present a unified historical panorama of the sociopolitical processes that occurred during the past century, the selfless efforts of Jadid intellectuals, political repression during the Soviet era, transformations in science, culture, and art, and the achievements of the independence period.

The section consists of three parts:

1. The part titled “National Reformism in Turkestan – The Jadid Movement” covers the period from 1890 to 1939. Through 17 projects, it showcases the activities of the Jadid movement, new-method schools, the press, educational societies, theaters, and museums. It also presents information on the political developments of 1920–1938, early historical achievements, and the policy of repression.

2. The section titled “Uzbekistan During the Soviet Era” covers events from 1940 to 1990. It includes six projects that highlight the activities of the Bobokhonov dynasty, development and construction efforts during the 1960s–1980s, and progress in science, literature, and the arts. Special attention is also given to significant “firsts” in Uzbekistan’s history.

3. The “Early Years of Uzbekistan’s Independence” section spans the period from 1991 to 2016. Through nine projects, it comprehensively presents the declaration of independence, the adoption of national symbols, the creation of the Constitution, the establishment of peace and stability, as well as advancements in architecture, science, literature, spiritual development, and the arts.

A total of 87 scholars, including three international experts, are working on this exhibition. The section showcases 541 exhibits in total. Of these, 52 are original artifacts preserved in the Center of Islamic Civilization’s collection; 395 exhibits are recommended by national museums; and 93 items are brought from international museums specifically for the exhibition. Additionally, one facsimile edition is planned for production.

The “Uzbekistan in the 20th Century” exhibition is a major step toward reviving historical memory, strengthening national identity, and educating the younger generation about the past. In short, this section of the Center of Islamic Civilization provides a comprehensive portrayal of the intellectual and cultural realities of its era.