Project 596: How China’s First Nuclear Test Scarred Xinjiang Forever
On October 16, 1964, China conducted its first nuclear test at Lop Nur, marking its entry into the nuclear club. This event, termed Project 596, was portrayed as a symbol of national strength but resulted in severe consequences for the Uyghur and Kazakh populations of Xinjiang. On 16 October 1964, at 1500 China Standard Time, Lop Nur…

