The features of steppe civilization in the works of Shokan Ualikhanov

Abstract

This research paper delves into the intricacies of steppe civilization as elucidated within the works of Shokan Ualikhanov, a distinguished Kazakh scholar and ethnographer of the 19th century. Employing primary sources including Ualikhanov’s original compositions, translated materials, and correspondence, alongside secondary sources, the study meticulously dissects Ualikhanov’s examination of the Kazakh ethnogenesis. This encompasses an exploration of the etymology of the term «Kazakh,» the development of the Kazakh ethnic group and the Kazakh Khanate, and the underlying structure of nomadic societies. The research underscores Ualikhanov’s substantial contributions to historiography, underlining his profound grasp of the formation of the Kazakh populace and society, as well as his corrective influence on preceding scholarly inaccuracies.Ualikhanov’s investigations into the history and culture of Turkic communities draw upon primary Eastern medieval sources, such as Kadyrgali Jalair’s «Collection of Chronicles,» Abulgazy Bahadur’s «Shajara-i Turk, and Muhammad Haidar Dulati’s «Tarikhi-Rashidi.» Furthermore, he utilized manuscripts sourced from Kashgar, notably Tazkirah Sultan Sutuq Boghra Khan, Tazkirah Tughluq Temir Khan, Tazkirah Khojagan, Abu Muslim Maurizi. This paper highlights his pioneering effort in translating and interpreting the «Manas» epic’s section titled «Koketai khannyn ertegisi» into Russian, marking a significant scholarly achievement.