Аннотации:
This research aims to examine the ethnographic data about the Kazakh ethnic group from the
European sources of the middle XIII to early XX centuries. The study uses problem-chronological and
comparative-historical analyses to process data published by European travellers, merchants,
soldiers and scientists. The European works contain factual inaccuracies, unverified information and
speculations. Their quality has improved since the XVIII century though. The findings of European
explorers allow a better understanding of the ethnogenesis of Kazakhs and their transition to
statehood. Data available in these sources will help find the historical roots of contemporary ethnic
and inter-ethnic problems in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The present study allowed a look at the
past life of Kazakh people and their ethnic distinction in Turkestan through the lens of European
mentality.
