Kazakhstan

Uncover the nomadic heritage and vast landscapes of Kazakhstan, the heart of Central Asia.

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Kazakhstan in 10 Minutes

Introduction

Introduction

Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, is a vast and diverse nation located in Central Asia. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, Kazakhstan is a melting pot of different cultures, languages, and traditions. From the snow-capped mountains of the Tian Shan range to the endless grasslands of the Kazakh Steppe, this country offers a unique and breathtaking landscape for visitors to explore.

As a former Soviet republic, Kazakhstan has undergone significant political and economic changes since gaining independence in 1991. The country's capital, Nur-Sultan, formerly known as Astana, is a modern metropolis with futuristic architecture and a thriving cultural scene. Beyond the city, travelers can discover ancient ruins, traditional yurts, and vibrant bazaars that showcase the country's nomadic heritage.

With a growing tourism industry, Kazakhstan is becoming an increasingly popular destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient Silk Road cities, trekking through remote wilderness areas, or experiencing the hospitality of the Kazakh people, there is something for everyone to discover in this fascinating country. Join us as we take a closer look at the wonders of Kazakhstan in this brief overview.

1. Nursultan Nazarbayev

1. Nursultan Nazarbayev

Nursultan Nazarbayev was the first President of Kazakhstan, serving from 1991 to 2019. He played a significant role in shaping the country's political and economic landscape during its early years of independence.

2. Aisultan Nazarbayev

2. Aisultan Nazarbayev

Aisultan Nazarbayev is the grandson of Nursultan Nazarbayev and a prominent figure in Kazakhstan's cultural scene. He is known for his work as a film director and producer.

3. Gennady Golovkin

3. Gennady Golovkin

Gennady Golovkin, also known as GGG, is a professional boxer from Kazakhstan. He is a former middleweight world champion and is considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport.

4. Dariga Nazarbayeva

4. Dariga Nazarbayeva

Dariga Nazarbayeva is the daughter of Nursultan Nazarbayev and a member of the Kazakh parliament. She is a prominent political figure in the country and has been involved in various social and cultural initiatives.

5. Dimash Kudaibergen

5. Dimash Kudaibergen

Dimash Kudaibergen is a singer and songwriter from Kazakhstan who gained international fame after appearing on the Chinese singing competition show Singer. He is known for his wide vocal range and emotional performances.

1. Rich History

1. Rich History

Kazakhstan has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation found in the region as far back as the Stone Age. The country has been home to various nomadic tribes and empires over the centuries, including the Scythians, Mongols, and Kazakhs.

2. Diverse Culture

2. Diverse Culture

With over 130 different ethnic groups living in Kazakhstan, the country boasts a diverse and vibrant culture. Traditional Kazakh customs and rituals are still practiced today, alongside influences from Russia, China, and other neighboring countries.

3. Stunning Landscapes

3. Stunning Landscapes

From the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains to the vast expanse of the Kazakh steppe, the country is known for its stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can explore the Charyn Canyon, Lake Balkhash, and the singing sand dunes of Altyn-Emel National Park.

4. Modern Cities

4. Modern Cities

Kazakhstan is home to modern cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan, which blend Soviet-era architecture with futuristic skyscrapers. These bustling urban centers offer a glimpse into the country's rapidly developing economy and growing tech industry.

5. Nomadic Heritage

5. Nomadic Heritage

The nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people is still evident in their way of life, with many families living in yurts and herding livestock across the steppe. Visitors can experience traditional Kazakh hospitality by staying in a yurt camp and participating in cultural activities.

6. Culinary Delights

6. Culinary Delights

Kazakh cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors and ingredients, with dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with pasta) and kazy (horse sausage) being popular among locals. Visitors can also sample traditional dairy products like kumis (fermented mare's milk) and shubat (camel milk).

7. Silk Road History

7. Silk Road History

As a key stop along the ancient Silk Road trading route, Kazakhstan has a long history of commerce and cultural exchange. The country's cities were once bustling hubs of trade, connecting East and West and influencing the development of art, religion, and technology.

8. Baikonur Cosmodrome

8. Baikonur Cosmodrome

Kazakhstan is home to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest space launch facility. Since the 1950s, the cosmodrome has been the launch site for numerous space missions, including the first human in space, Yuri Gagarin.

9. World-Class Museums

9. World-Class Museums

Visitors to Kazakhstan can explore a wealth of world-class museums, showcasing the country's history, art, and culture. The National Museum of Kazakhstan in Nur-Sultan and the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan in Almaty are must-visit attractions for history buffs.

10. Warm Hospitality

10. Warm Hospitality

Kazakhstan is known for its warm hospitality and friendly people, who welcome visitors with open arms. Whether attending a traditional Kazakh wedding or sharing a meal with a local family, guests are sure to feel the genuine warmth and kindness of the Kazakh people.

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In a Nutshell

  • Capital: Nur-Sultan
  • Population: Approx. 18.8 million (2021)
  • Official Language: Kazakh
  • Currency: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT)

Breaking Down the Country

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Timeline of Kazakhstan

December 16, 1991

Kazakhstan gains independence from the Soviet Union

April 24, 1990

Nursultan Nazarbayev becomes the first President of Kazakhstan

March 2, 1992

Kazakhstan becomes a member of the United Nations

September 13, 1991

Kazakhstan signs the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

December 10, 1997

Astana is declared the new capital of Kazakhstan

March 27, 2015

Kazakhstan joins the World Trade Organization

June 17, 2006

Kazakhstan launches its first satellite, KazSat-1

January 30, 2011

Kazakhstan hosts the Asian Winter Games

July 6, 2006

Kazakhstan celebrates the 550th anniversary of Kazakh Khanate

January 1, 2010

Kazakhstan becomes the chair of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe

July 6, 2018

Kazakhstan celebrates the 20th anniversary of its capital, Astana

June 10, 2017

Kazakhstan hosts the Expo 2017 in Astana

January 1, 2017

Kazakhstan becomes a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council

December 16, 2021

Kazakhstan celebrates the 30th anniversary of independence

March 19, 2019

Nursultan Nazarbayev resigns as President of Kazakhstan

March 15, 2014

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev becomes the President of Kazakhstan

April 28, 2011

Kazakhstan launches its first domestically built satellite, KazSat-3

September 3, 2010

Kazakhstan becomes a member of the Turkic Council

March 2020

Kazakhstan imposes a lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic

August 30, 2025

Kazakhstan celebrates the 30th anniversary of its constitution

Vocabulary List

Steppe
A large, flat grassy plain
Nomadic
People who move from place to place with no permanent home
Silk road
An ancient network of trade routes connecting the East and West
Almaty
The largest city in Kazakhstan, known for its beautiful mountains
Astana
The capital city of Kazakhstan, famous for its modern architecture
Soviet Union
A former federal socialist state in Eurasia, of which Kazakhstan was a part
Caspian Sea
The largest enclosed inland body of water on Earth, located to the west of Kazakhstan
Aral Sea
A once-large saltwater lake located in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, now greatly diminished due to human activity
Baikonur Cosmodrome
The world's first and largest operational space launch facility, located in Kazakhstan
Ethnic diversity
The presence of different ethnic groups within a defined region or country
Yurt
A portable, round tent traditionally used by nomadic people in Central Asia
Kazakh
The official language of Kazakhstan
Russian
A widely spoken language in Kazakhstan due to the country's historical ties with Russia
Oil reserves
Deposits of oil that can be extracted and used as a source of energy
Nuclear disarmament
The process of reducing or eliminating nuclear weapons
Tien Shan
A large mountain range in Central Asia, partly located in Kazakhstan
Shymkent
A city in southern Kazakhstan, known for its rich history and cultural heritage
Borat
A fictional character created by comedian Sacha Baron Cohen, who humorously portrays a stereotypical Kazakh man
Kokpar
A traditional Kazakh sport played on horseback, similar to polo
Kazakh cuisine
The traditional food and cooking methods of the Kazakh people.

Key Facts

This is the information used in the fact matching game

  • Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world
  • It is located in Central Asia
  • The capital city of Kazakhstan is Nur-Sultan

  • The country shares its borders with Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan
  • Kazakhstan has a population of over 18 million people
  • The official language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh

  • The currency used in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani tenge
  • The country is known for its vast steppes and diverse landscapes
  • Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals

  • Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest spaceport, is located in Kazakhstan
  • The country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
  • Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world by land area

  • The Kazakh people have a rich nomadic heritage and traditional yurt dwellings
  • The national dish of Kazakhstan is called beshbarmak, which is a meat and pasta dish
  • The country is home to the world's largest population of wild horses, known as Przewalski's horses

  • Kazakhstan has a diverse ethnic makeup, with Kazakhs being the largest ethnic group
  • The country has a continental climate, with extreme temperature variations throughout the year
  • Kazakhstan has a high literacy rate, with education being a priority

  • The Kazakh language is written in a modified version of the Cyrillic alphabet
  • Kazakhstan has hosted various international events, including the 2011 Asian Winter Games.

Why It Matters

Geopolitical Significance

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan’s vast territory and rich energy resources make it a key player in global geopolitics. Its strategic position influences regional dynamics and international relationships, particularly with Russia and China.

Historical Importance

Kazakhstan has a long history as a center of trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. It has been home to various nomadic empires and played a crucial role in the spread of Islam in Central Asia. The legacy of its nomadic traditions continues to shape its identity.

Modern-Day Role

In the modern era, Kazakhstan is a leader in Central Asia, promoting regional cooperation and stability. Its economy, centered around oil and gas production, has fueled rapid development and positioned the country as a key player in the global energy market. Kazakhstan’s diplomatic efforts and commitment to peace have earned it a respected voice on the world stage.

Kazakhstan Games

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