During the Republic of China (1912–1949) period, its area was divided between the surrounding counties.

[5][6] At least until the end of the 20th century, Dongxiang County was very impoverished and undeveloped, having a literacy rate of just 15%, the lowest in China.

[7] In 2017, it had the highest poverty rate of Gansu, already the poorest province in China.

[4] Dongxiang County has a typical Loess Plateau landscape, with numerous gullies and mountains and a dry climate.

[4] Its specialty food includes Pinghuo, a dish of steamed lamb.