The Zunghar were a Mongolic ethnic group that primarily inhabited the region of present-day Xinjiang in China and parts of Kazakhstan. They were known for their nomadic lifestyle, herding livestock such as sheep and horses. The Zunghars played a significant role in the history of Central Asia during the 17th and 18th centuries, often engaging in conflicts with neighboring powers. The Zunghar Khanate, established in the early 17th century, was a prominent political entity that controlled vast territories. It was characterized by its military prowess and trade networks. However, the Zunghars faced decline due to internal strife and external pressures, particularly from the Qing Dynasty, which ultimately led to their conquest in the mid-18th century.