THE ROLE OF NOMADIC CIVILIZATIONS IN SHAPING THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KAZAKHSTAN

  • Алия Бенке Академия Национальной гвардии Республики Казахстан
Keywords: Nomadic civilization, cultural heritage, great steppe, national identity, yurt, epic tradition, dombra music, zhetyzhargy (customary law), kumys and shubat, world nomad games

Abstract

This article examines the role of nomadic civilizations in shaping Kazakhstan's cultural heritage, focusing on their significance for constructing national identity. The study draws on a variety of historical and cultural sources. It highlights the interconnectedness of tangible and intangible heritage, demonstrating how they together shaped the value system and cultural code of nomadic societies. The article's novelty lies in its demonstration that in the era of globalization, nomadic heritage is not only preserved but also transformed and institutionalized, becoming part of state cultural policy, tourism strategies, and international events. The findings demonstrate that nomadic heritage is not a static relic of the past, but a living and dynamic system integrated into contemporary cultural and political contexts. It serves as a bridge between history and modernity, strengthens national identity, facilitates cultural diplomacy, and serves as a strategic resource for Kazakhstan's sustainable development in a global environment. At the same time, the study highlights the need for further interdisciplinary study of nomadic heritage, drawing on modern methods of archaeology, ethnology, and digital humanities.

Published
2026-06-25
How to Cite
Бенке, А. (2026). THE ROLE OF NOMADIC CIVILIZATIONS IN SHAPING THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KAZAKHSTAN. Bulletin WKU , 102(2), 148. https://doi.org/10.37238/2960-1371.2960-138X.2026.102(2).16