Several hundred years ago, the central part of Asia was a well-developed area with many strong states. The history of the Kyrgyz and Kyrgyzstan is closely intertwined with the actions of the ancient great empires. This country has a rich cultural and military history and has experienced many ups and downs. Important trade routes to Siberia and China passed here, fierce and long battles have always been going on for this land.
History of ancient times
On the territory of the modern state of Kyrgyzstan, people settled more than 100 thousand years ago. Anthropological materials dating back to 126,000 years old were found in one of the regions. Archaeological excavations have confirmed that one of the oldest settlements in Asia, the city of Osh in the south, is located in this area. It is here that the famous Ak-Chunkur caves are located, the walls of which were painted with red ocher by ancient hunters.
The first inhabitants of the country were pagan nomads,who left behind only parking lots and primitive tools. In addition, Scythians, Usuns, Eftals or "White Huns" and other ancient peoples lived here at different times. The history of the Kyrgyz and Kyrgyzstan has gone through many religions. In the middle of the 10th centuries, the majority of the population preached Buddhism, which was replaced by Islam a little later.
Kyrgyzstan in the Middle Ages
Starting from the 13th century, the territory of Central Asia and parts of Europe was subjected to numerous raids by Mongolian nomads. According to scientists, they destroyed the indigenous population of modern Kyrgyzstan, and today's inhabitants of these lands are already descendants of the warlike Mongols. Genetic studies have revealed a separate haplogroup of the Kyrgyz nation, which originates among the Yenisei, Turkic tribes and some regions of China.
At the end of the 9th-10th centuries, the Kyrgyz Khaganate flourished, the lands of Southern Siberia, Mongolia, the upper reaches of the Irtysh fell under its patronage. In the next 300-500 years, the Kyrgyz tribes lived in the Minusi Basin, gradually moving to the territory of modern Kyrgyzstan. In the 15-16 centuries, the state was under the rule of the Kazakh Khanate, later captured by the Dzungars. The most serious damage befell the country in the middle of the 18th century, when the army of the Qing dynasty seized all the lands and destroyed almost the entire male population.
History of Kyrgyzstan during Russian rule
Until the middle of the 19th century, individual Kyrgyz tribes arbitrarily passed under the citizenship of the Russian Empire. After 1855 detachmentsimperial troops conquered significant territories of Kyrgyzstan. Some tribal tribes did not want to part with their independence so easily, so periodically there were violent clashes between Russian troops and the local population.
One of the significant dates in the history of Kyrgyzstan was the Revolution of 1917, after which the region received the status of an autonomous republic, which greatly contributed to the development of separate statehood in the country. And after the collapse of the USSR, Kyrgyzstan gained sovereignty rather painlessly. During the period when the republic was part of the USSR, it developed as an industrial and agricultural country. Coal mines were opened here, large areas were developed for agricultural plantings. During the Great Patriotic War, more than 360 thousand volunteers were sent to fight the Nazis. Until now, many monuments in the country speak of this victory.
Current situation
Since 1991, the state gained independence. Great changes have taken place in the sphere of the political system. Thus, the former totalitarian regime was replaced by an authoritarian-democratic one, gradually building up the democratic line.
In the administrative-territorial sense, Kyrgyzstan is divided into 7 regions and 2 cities of republican significance. The state constitution was adopted in 2010, some amendments were made in 2016. According to the main document of the country, Kyrgyzstan is a democratic, secular, unitary and social state. The constitution does not formally specify the form of governmentbut, according to politicians, it is parliamentary-presidential, with a great influence of the prime minister. The country has a multi-party system.
Kyrgyzstan's main political partners are Russia and the CIS states. The state conducts active economic cooperation with China, Kazakhstan and Turkey. The main export commodity is agricultural products. In addition, Kyrgyzstan has large reserves of gold and mercury.
Natural resources
Kyrgyzstan is located on an area of 200 thousand square meters. km. Almost the entire territory is occupied by steppes and mountains, there is no access to the sea. There are two mountain systems in the country: Tien Shan and Pamir-Alai. The highest point is Pobeda Peak - 7439 m. Kyrgyzstan borders on China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.
The climate is sharply continental, arid. In summer, the temperature rises to +20 ºС, in winter it drops to -30 ºС. On the territory of Kyrgyzstan there are thousands of glaciers that feed many large and small rivers of the country. The most famous rivers are the Syr Darya and Amu Darya, the lakes are Balkhash and Aral.
The flora and fauna are widely represented. More than 2,000 different species of trees grow in the forests of Kyrgyzstan. Snow leopards, foxes, wolves, brown bears, ground squirrels, deer live here. Many animals are included in the Red Book of Russia.
As far back as the end of the 19th century, rich deposits of minerals were found on the territory of Kyrgyzstan. Primarily coal. Development is ongoing to this day. In addition, non-ferrous and rare metals, gold, mercury, tin and tungsten are mined here. Many springs are now abandoneddue to unfavorable financial conditions.
Problems of the country
Most of the population of Kyrgyzstan today is below the poverty line. The economy is powered only by the agricultural sector, but almost the entire crop is sold to other countries. The crisis led to the destruction of many social institutions, such as medicine, education, and culture. There is a shortage of qualified specialists and leaders.
Kyrgyzstan has been leading the sad list of countries with high maternal mortality for many years. The reasons for such a terrible situation in a number of adverse factors. Most women die from postpartum hemorrhage and anemia. Poor nutrition and lack of proper care contribute to the development of serious abnormalities. Since 2006, the government has launched a program to protect the he alth of expectant mothers. Propaganda is being carried out among the population to prepare girls and women for planning motherhood.
Notable events
There were many important moments in the history of such an ancient state, the main ones are described in the textbook "History of Kyrgyzstan" (grade 5). Now the authorities are trying to restore the interest of the population in the heroic past of their people. After all, the level of illiteracy and lack of education in Kyrgyzstan is one of the highest among the former republics of the USSR.
The following important years in the history of Kyrgyzstan are distinguished for schoolchildren:
- 3 in BC e. – the first mention in the Chinese charter of the name of the Hun king;
- 201 BC e. ancient Chinese sources speak of the Kirghiz tribe;
- 104 - 101BC e - invasion of Chinese troops;
- Beginning 3rd c.e. e. – formation of the Kangut state;
- 5 century AD - Kirghiz move to the area of the lower reaches of the Elisey;
- 8th-9th centuries - the emergence and reign of the Kangt Khaganate, a union of strong nomadic tribes;
- The end of the 15th - the beginning of the 1st century - the folding of the Kyrgyz people;
- 1917 - the formation of Soviet power.
Among current events, it is worth highlighting the adoption of a new sovereign Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as the overthrow of President K. Bakiyev in 2010 and the election of a new government headed by A. Atambaev.
Features of national traditions
The history of the culture of Kyrgyzstan is unique and original. It was formed under the influence of many factors: Muslim and pagan beliefs, assimilation with other nations. In songs, fairy tales and just in everyday life, the theme of nature, her majesty over ordinary people prevails
The history of the state of Kyrgyzstan is inextricably linked with nomadic life. All clothes, houses, tools reflect respect for the gifts of nature. Yurts were made from the skins of deer and other animals; such housing was easily assembled and disassembled, and transported to a new place. Clothing was made from natural material and dyed with natural dyes.
Horses have always been of great importance in the history of Kyrgyzstan. These animals served as a means of transporting goods; with their help, men hunted and made military raids. Horses gave the Kirghiz meat, milk, skins. In addition, at all holidays, horses became the center of worship and an obligatory object of national songs and dances.
Literature
The history of the state of Kyrgyzstan is inextricably linked with the most significant folk poem - "Manas". Its structure resembles the Greek Odyssey. The hero became a hero, personifying the entire people of Kyrgyzstan. The epic entered the Guinness Book of Records as the longest and most voluminous work in the world.
Researchers did not agree on what time the events in the poem belong to. The Russian scientist V. M. Zhirmunsky called the Middle Ages - the 17th century, others noted an earlier period. But many agree that the events described are not fiction and not a retelling of myths, but a transmission of real historical episodes.
National sport
Each nation creates its own special sports, taking into account the characteristics of its country and people. So, in Russia in ancient times they played bast shoes, blind man's buff and other outdoor games. In the history of Kyrgyzstan, sport was of great importance and emerged from military competitions. Men trained before hiking, supported the strength of the spirit in the body with the help of sports exercises. And at the same time, the games reflected the national preferences of the Kyrgyz.
So, the traditional sporting event is Kok-Boru. 8 men on horseback fight each other for a ram carcass, and having received it, they try to throw it into the opponent's gate. As in all Asian states, wrestling is still popular in Kyrgyzstan. This sport contributesphysical and strategic education.
Tourism
Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful country with a unique history. There are many historical monuments, as well as places of nature untouched by man. However, problems with the economy do not allow to fully establish the tourism business. Indeed, to attract people, not only sights are needed, but also a developed infrastructure, many hotels, places to eat, and convenient travel routes.
Travelers who have visited Kyrgyzstan at least once note the amazing nature, which is in no way inferior to Switzerland, Denmark, the Netherlands and Montenegro. In a small area there are several climatic zones at once. For 3-4 days you can visit the subtropics, semi-desert regions and temperate marine areas. Fans of wild extreme sports, climbing and those who are fond of skiing will find entertainment here. For people interested in archeology, there are many places in Kyrgyzstan where you can plunge into the ancient world.
Famous people
Kyrgyzstan is a poor but proud country that honors and remembers its past and famous representatives of the people. Among the famous personalities of the history of Kyrgyzstan, the warriors Tailak and his twin brother Atantai are especially popular. Both of these historical figures fought against the Chinese troops who occupied the territory of modern Kyrgyzstan in the Middle Ages.
Gardener Fetisov is a unique person who has planted more than 200 thousand trees in his life. He was able to overcome many obstaclesthe sides of officials and just those people who did not believe in the scientist, openly mocked and interfered with him. A successful botanist, professor, he could have made a good career in the capital, but chose difficult conditions in the steppe. Fetisov was able to design and implement the idea of greening a large city under construction in a short time.
Kubat biy is a famous person, the hero of oral tales and legends of the Kyrgyz people. According to legend, he lived in the 17th-18th century and became famous for his heroic deeds, protecting his lands from raids and trying to unite disparate tribes.
Baitik-baatyr – this man is the subject of many legends about the noble war from the Chui valley. It is he who is credited with appealing to the authorities of the Russian Empire for patronage. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the country was torn apart by internecine strife and raids by steppe nomads, so the people of Kyrgyzstan voluntarily joined the empire.
Kurmanazh-datka - this woman has become the brightest representative of the history of Kyrgyzstan. There are many songs and legends about her that have survived to this day. After the death of her husband, she became a wise and just ruler.
Namatov Satybaldy, a well-known and honored educator of Kyrgyzstan, at the beginning of the 19th century led an active fight against illiteracy in the country. He worked at the department, published methodological materials on teaching the Russian and Kyrgyz languages. But, like many smart people of those times, he was unfairly accused and was shot in 1937.
Pyotr Petrovich Semyonov (Tien Shan) is a famous explorer and traveler. For many years he studied flora andfauna of Kyrgyzstan. He made many scientific discoveries, his name is forever inscribed in the history of the country.
Attractions
On the territory of the country, the monuments of an ancient civilization coexist simultaneously with the monuments of the Soviet era. Despite such cultural diversity, the people of Kyrgyzstan are proud of the achievements of their distant and close ancestors.
History of the monuments of Kyrgyzstan:
- Osh is the oldest city in Central Asia.
- Shorobashat - the ruins of a large settlement dating back to the 5th-6th century AD. e. The settlement is located on the gentle side of the hill near the Yassa River and covers an area of 70 hectares. Here is a military fortress, a spiritual room and a refuge for ordinary people. Moreover, these ancient walls served as protection for the local population during many wars.
- Uzgen - the history of the creation of the monument in Kyrgyzstan dates back to the 8th-9th century AD. The city is considered one of the oldest in the country. Uzgen was located on the route of the caravan to the East and was considered a strategic military outpost.
- Complex of defensive settlements near Issyk-Kul Lake. The chain included several cities, small villages. Archaeologists are still making interesting historical discoveries here.
More than a hundred thousand drawings of ancient people have been found on the slope of the Ferghana Range. They depicted hunting, dancing, their gods.
Features of schooling
Even in the early 2000s, the government of Kyrgyzstan thought about the revival of education in the state. To this endseveral institutes were given the task of developing a curriculum for all grades. The book paid special attention to the merits of the Kyrgyz people, their glorious victories.
A series of textbooks on the history of Kyrgyzstan Osmonov O. J. covers a long period of time, from the birth of civilization on this earth to recent years. These educational materials have become a mandatory program for all schools and other educational institutions in the country. The series covers periods from ancient times to the present:
- "History of Kyrgyzstan" (Grade 6) - the textbook covers the period of Antiquity, when tribes of ancient people lived on the territory of modern Kyrgyzstan. Remains dating back to 126 ka were found in mountains and caves. BC e. From the book, children will be able to learn that huge dinosaurs and mammoths once lived on the site of modern villages and cities.
- "History of Kyrgyzstan" (Grade 7) - tells about the period of formation of the Kyrgyz people. The difficult path of the struggle of the local population against the invaders from the east and west is described. For many decades, the inhabitants of the steppes assimilated with the Mongols, Kazakhs and other tribes of Central Asia.
- "History of Kyrgyzstan" (grade 8) - middle classes study the period of development of their native country during the period of being part of the USSR. At this time, Kyrgyzstan was experiencing a great industrial and agricultural boom.
The history of the last years of Kyrgyzstan's existence is taught for high school students. Many ordinary residents criticize the textbook for being too “ironed” in presenting facts about past events. MainThe purpose of Osmonov O. J.'s history textbooks of Kyrgyzstan is to give the population an idea of the glorious history of Kyrgyzstan, as well as to revive patriotic feelings in the inhabitants.
Kyrgyzstan is a country of amazing discoveries, its history is rich in great events and legendary people. For many, a trip here will be a real discovery. Under favorable conditions and a properly chosen policy, the state may well become a developing and strong player in its region.
