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The Kazakh People of Kazakhstan were historically nomadic tribes roaming around the steppes of Europe and Asia with herds of sheep, cows and horses, constantly moving to pastures with more food. They carried Yurtas, or movable homes, with many colorful handmade rugs and blankets.
In the fifteenth century it was established as Kazakh Khanate; the word Khan meaning “local chieftains” in the countries of central Asia. The people traded with silk traders from China, among many others. Part of the historic Silk Trail runs through Kazakhstan.
The country of Kazakhstan sits in both Asia and Europe, and was heavily influenced by the Russians. It became a republic of the USSR in 1918 (during the Russian Revolution) and 70 years later (1990) when the USSR collapsed, Kazakhstan created a Declaration of State of Sovereignty, becoming the country known today as the Republic of Kazakhstan. It uses a presidential form of government and the young Kazakhstan Democracy sports a good market economy.
A Nomadic and Entertaining Lifestyle
The national foods of Kazakh are generally made from lamb or mutton, onions and noodles. This dish is called beshbarmak, the translation being “five fingers” because it is eaten with the hands. Others living in Kazakhstan commonly prepare foods from their respective origins and histories, as well.
One tradition is a yearly gathering of the tribes to celebrate and enjoy competing in Kazakh wrestling, horse racing and singing. Everyone learns to play the dombra, a two-stringed instrument that has a long neck and a short, round body. It’s used to sing all the histories and songs of the realities of life.
