“Turkestan Collection” – a source of data on Kazakh names and historical monuments

Abstract

Relevance. This article explores the significant collection known as the “Turkestan Collection”, which encompasses a vast array of historical data on the Kazakh language and cultural heritage. It highlights the importance of this collection in understanding the socio-cultural transformations experienced by the Kazakh people under tsarist Russian governance during the late XIX – early XX centuries. Purpose. The purpose of this study is to analyze the “Turkestan Collection” in order to uncover insights into the native language and evolving cultural practices of the Kazakh people, shifting from nomadic to semi-sedentary lifestyles, and how these were documented during Russian colonization. Methodology. The research method involves a detailed examination of “Turkestan Collection”, which consists of final materials from a census conducted by the Migration Department of the Main Directorate of Land Management and Agriculture. The analysis focuses on the representation of Kazakh names, places, and cultural practices as recorded in this comprehensive census. Results. Findings reveal that the collection contains extensive information on various ethnic names, historical monuments, and cultural traditions of the Kazakh people. It provides a unique perspective on the transition phases of Kazakh society, with detailed accounts of land names, tribal affiliations, and shifts in living patterns. Conclusions. The “Turkestan Collection” serves as a pivotal resource for understanding the intricate history and cultural evolution of the Kazakh people. Despite being a product of colonial objectives, the collection offers invaluable insights into the rich linguistic and cultural landscape of Kazakhstan during a period of significant change and adaptation.