The establishment of the Tuvan People's Republic marked a profound moment in the history of Central Asia. Situated between the Russian Empire and Mongolia, Tannu Uriankhai had long been a region of interest for various powers due to its strategic location and the presence of indigenous Turkic populations. In the aftermath of the Russian Civil War, local leaders seized the opportunity to declare independence in 1921, influenced by the rise of Bolshevism and the disintegration of traditional power structures. With the backing of the Soviet government, Tannu Uriankhai transitioned into an autonomous state, officially recognized as the Tuvan People's Republic.

The declaration was not just a simple regional shift; it represented broader trends of national liberation movements in the aftermath of World War I and the collapse of empires. The new republic aimed to modernize and develop its economy and culture under Soviet influence, incorporating elements of Marxist ideology. This included land reforms and educational initiatives which sought to elevate the standard of living for the largely nomadic populations.

Economically and politically, Tuvan leaders worked closely with Soviet authorities to align their objectives with those of the new Soviet regime. Over the following years, Tuvan nationalism would evolve under the influence of the USSR, navigating the complexities of Soviet policy while striving to maintain local traditions. The Tuvan People's Republic would remain a unique entity in Central Asia until its eventual incorporation into the Soviet Union in 1944, demonstrating the integration of regional nationalism within broader Soviet aspirations.