Kazakhstan
A short history of kazakhstan
Independence
Kazakhstan declared its independence from the Soviet Union on 16 December 1991, marking the beginning of a new era for the nation. Over the past three decades, Kazakhstan has developed a unique and diverse culture shaped by its rich history and the influences of various ethnic groups.
The country’s independence allowed it to establish its identity, separate from Soviet control. This period has seen significant cultural revival and development. Traditional Kazakh customs, music, and arts have been revitalized, while the country has embraced modern influences. The capital city, Astana (formerly known as Nur-Sultan), is a testament to this blend of tradition and modernity with its futuristic architecture and cultural landmarks.
Diversity
Kazakhstan’s population is a mosaic of ethnicities, including Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, and many others. This diversity is reflected in the country’s cultural practices, languages, and cuisines. The government has promoted multiculturalism and tolerance policies, fostering a sense of unity among its people.
Economically, Kazakhstan has leveraged its vast natural resources, particularly oil and gas, to build a robust economy. This economic growth has enabled the country to invest in education, infrastructure, and healthcare, further enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
Political Reforms
President Tokayev has introduced several waves of political reforms aimed at democratizing the country. These include liberalizing laws on public assemblies, reducing the party registration threshold, decriminalizing defamation, and abolishing the death penalty. These reforms are part of his vision for a “New and Just Kazakhstan,” which emphasizes a shift from a super-presidential system to a more balanced presidential republic with a robust parliament and accountable government.
One of Tokayev’s first initiatives was the establishment of the National Council of Public Trust. This body serves as a platform for dialogue between the government and civil society, aiming to make the government more responsive to the needs of its citizens.
Reforms have also been made at the local level, including the election of akims (mayors) and the empowerment of local representative bodies (maslikhats). These changes are intended to enhance public influence in regional governance and promote political pluralism.
Tokayev’s administration has focused on economic diversification and social welfare. Efforts have been made to reduce the country’s dependence on oil and gas by promoting other sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and digital technologies. Social policies have aimed at improving healthcare, education, and social protection for vulnerable groups.
A short history on astana (formerly known as Nur-Sultan)
Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, has a rich and dynamic history that reflects the broader changes in the region. Here’s an overview of its journey:
Early History
Astana’s origins date back to 1830 when it was founded as a settlement named Akmoly on the banks of the Ishim River. The name “Akmoly” is believed to mean “white grave” in Kazakh, possibly referring to a local landmark. In 1832, it was granted town status and renamed Akmolinsk.
Soviet Era
During the Soviet period, the city underwent several transformations. In 1961, under Nikita Khrushchev’s Virgin Lands Campaign, it was renamed Tselinograd, which means “City of Virgin Lands” in Russian. This campaign aimed to boost agricultural production by cultivating previously unused lands, bringing many Russian immigrants to the region as agricultural workers.
Post-Independence
Following Kazakhstan’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the city was renamed Akmola. In 1997, President Nursultan Nazarbayev moved the capital from Almaty to Akmola, citing strategic and economic reasons. The following year, the city was renamed Astana, which means “capital city” in Kazakh.
Modern Era
Astana has seen rapid development since becoming the capital. The city was designed with a master plan by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, resulting in a blend of futuristic architecture and modern infrastructure. In 2019, the city was renamed Nur-Sultan in honor of Nursultan Nazarbayev, the country’s first president, following his resignation. However, in September 2022, the name was reverted back to Astana.
Cultural and Economic Hub
Today, Astana is not only the political centre of Kazakhstan but also a cultural and economic hub. It hosts numerous government buildings, including the Ak Orda Presidential Palace, and is known for its striking landmarks, such as the Baiterek Tower and the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center. The city continues to grow and evolve, symbolizing Kazakhstan’s ambitions and progress on the global stage.
Astana’s history is a testament to its resilience and adaptability, reflecting the broader narrative of Kazakhstan’s journey as an independent nation.