Suicide was studied in 3 ethnic groups in Huhhot, Inner Mongolia for the period 1986-91. Cultural influences on suicide were also studied. The Han have the most tolerant views toward suicide & were found to have the highest suicide rates. The Hui follow Islam, which condemns suicide, & had the lowest rates. The Meng expect to suffer in life & thus are not prone to suicide. However as the Meng move to the cities & become more educated, they adopt Han values & their suicide rate has increased.