Assyrians

*Population estimates for 1994

The Assyrians or Assors (or Aturai as they called themselves) were a people whose historical territories lie in the northwestern parts of Iran and East Turkey. They also are found in Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. In the CIS, they live mostly in the Caucasus and some larger Russian cities. As a rule, in the CIS the Assyrians are mostly urban people. They work primarily in industry and agriculture.

In some oriental countries, the Assyrians have preserved the survivals of their family tribal culture. The Assyrians consider themselves to be the descendants of the famous ancient Assyrians. Many of them keep ancient traditions, customs, and culture alive.

Assyrians believers are on the whole Christians Nestorians.