The document discusses how Chinese policies have impacted the political strength of the Uyghur ethnic group in China. It introduces the Uyghurs as a Turkish Muslim minority located in the Xinjiang region and provides background on Uyghur independence movements dating back to 1933. The thesis will analyze whether Chinese policies have helped strengthen or weaken Uyghur identity by exploring two categories of policies - those focused on Uyghur assimilation and development, and those imposing greater controls and restrictions on Uyghur culture and religion. The hypothesis is that Chinese policies have not favored Uyghur interests.