Understanding Kazakhstan's Identity: Turkic Heritage and National Pride

For many, the history of Kazakhs begins in the 15th century with the emergence of the Kazakh Khanate, arguably the first unified nation to call itself Kazakh. When we speak of ldquo;Turkrdquo; in the context of national identity, yes, all Kazakh people are indeed Turkic.

Turkic Heritage in Kazakhstan

Throughout Kazakhstan, the Turkic heritage is celebrated prominently. Turkestan, a city in Kazakhstan, was declared the capital of the Turkic World in 2021 by the Organization of Turkic States. This declaration underscores the importance of Turkic identity in the region.

Despite this cultural emphasis, the school curriculum also highlights Mongol heritage, particularly the Golden Horde. Joshi Khan, the founder of the Golden Horde, is buried in Ulytau. His descendants played a significant role in the creation of the Kazakh Khanate, succeeding the decline and collapse of the Golden Horde. The Ulytau mountain also houses memorials to many other khans of the Golden Horde, including Tokhtamysh, the famous scourge of Muscovy, and Timur's greatest rival.

The Yassavi Mausoleum in Turkestan is a revered site, housing the remains of the renowned Sufi Hadji Ahmed Yassavi and many Genghisid khans of the Kazakh Khanate. These and many other landmarks across the region serve as testaments to the rich Turkic heritage of Kazakhstan. President Tokaev actively promotes and supports these cultural sites, reinforcing the sense of national pride and Turkic identity.

Turkic People and Nomadic Traditions

Kazakhs are traditionally nomadic people, primarily residing in Kazakhstan, the largest country in Central Asia. They are known for their deep connection to their land and way of life. As citizens of Kazakhstan and the United Nations, Kazakhs are rooted in a sense of national pride. They do not endorse ethnic antagonism that is often fueled by external propaganda.

Social and Cultural Dynamics

There are some unique perspectives among the Kazakh community. For example, Kipchak Cuman, a member of the community, shares a different view on cultural identity. He identifies as Kipchak Cuman, which reflects the complex heritage of his ancestors. His family consisted of mercenaries for the Byzantine Empire, and they lived in the region until the Mongol invasion. These ancestors mixed with the Mongols, leading to a diverse identity that is a blend of Turkic, East Asian, Mongolic, and West Eurasian heritage.

While many Kazakhs are proud of their Turkic heritage, there is a nuanced understanding of what it means to be Turkic in contemporary times. Language, history, and cultural practices all contribute to the identity of this diverse population. The term ldquo;Turkrdquo; in historical inscriptions and old sources is used to refer to this nation, while the term ldquo;Turkicrdquo; is used in English to classify people from Turkey and other Turkic-speaking regions.

Conclusion

The identity of the Kazakhs is a rich tapestry of Turkic heritage, Mongol influence, and nomadic traditions. As they navigate their history and future, Kazakhs continue to embrace their Turkic roots while also recognizing the multicultural nature of their society. Their national pride and cultural heritage are celebrated both within the country and on the global stage.