History of Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, has a rich and diverse history shaped by its geography, nomadic cultures, and various…
Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, has a rich and diverse history shaped by its geography, nomadic cultures, and various empires.
Ancient and Medieval Periods
Early Inhabitants:
Scythians and Saka Tribes: The earliest inhabitants of Kazakhstan were nomadic tribes like the Scythians and Saka, who lived around the first millennium BCE. These tribes were known for their horse culture and warrior traditions.
Turkic and Mongol Influence:
Turkic Khaganate: In the 6th century CE, the Turkic Khaganate emerged, bringing Turkic culture and language to the region.
Mongol Empire: In the 13th century, Genghis Khan‘s Mongol Empire conquered Kazakhstan, incorporating it into the vast Mongol territories. The region later became part of the Golden Horde, a Mongol successor state.
Kazakh Khanate
Formation of the Kazakh Khanate:
15th Century: The Kazakh Khanate was established in the 15th century by Janybek and Kerei Khan. It united various nomadic tribes under a single political entity and developed a distinct Kazakh identity.
Golden Age: The Kazakh Khanate reached its peak in the 16th century under the leadership of rulers like Kasym Khan, who expanded its territory and influence.
Russian Empire and Soviet Period
Russian Expansion:
18th and 19th Centuries: Starting in the 18th century, the Russian Empire gradually extended its control over Kazakhstan. By the mid-19th century, Kazakhstan was fully integrated into the Russian Empire, bringing significant cultural and economic changes.
Soviet Era:
Soviet Incorporation: After the Russian Revolution in 1917, Kazakhstan became part of the Soviet Union. In 1936, it was designated as the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic (Kazakh SSR).
Collectivization and Famine: Soviet policies, particularly collectivization, had devastating effects on Kazakh nomadic life. The Great Famine (1930-1933) resulted in the death of an estimated 1.5 to 2 million Kazakhs.
Industrialization and WWII: During World War II, Kazakhstan played a crucial role in the Soviet war effort, and post-war industrialization transformed its economy.
Independence and Modern Era
Independence:
1991: Kazakhstan declared its independence from the Soviet Union on December 16, 1991, becoming the last Soviet republic to do so. Nursultan Nazarbayev became the country’s first president.
Post-Independence Developments:
Economic Transition: Kazakhstan transitioned to a market economy, leveraging its vast natural resources, particularly oil and gas, to achieve significant economic growth.
Political Stability: Nursultan Nazarbayev maintained a strong grip on power, fostering political stability but also facing criticism for authoritarian practices.
Capital Relocation: In 1997, the capital was moved from Almaty to Astana (renamed Nur-Sultan in 2019 in honor of Nazarbayev).
Recent Developments
Political Changes:
Leadership Transition: In 2019, Nursultan Nazarbayev resigned, and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev succeeded him as president. Nazarbayev retained significant influence as the head of the Security Council and the ruling party.
Protests and Reforms: Kazakhstan has seen various protests over economic issues and calls for political reforms. The government has promised gradual democratic reforms.
International Relations:
Regional Influence: Kazakhstan plays a significant role in Central Asian politics and maintains strong relations with both Russia and China. It is also a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and the Eurasian Economic Union.
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