Ethnocultural and Historical-Geographical Features of the Kazakhs and Kyrgyz in the Context of Sh. Ualikhanov’s Research

The authors of the article conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis of the spiritual-cultural and historical-geographical issues of the Kazakh and Kyrgyz peoples as reflected in the scholarly legacy of Shoqan Ualikhanov.During his two scientific expeditions to Kyrgyz territories in 1856-1857, Ualikhanov produced several foundational works, including "The Issyk-Kul Diaries" (1856), "Notes on the Kyrgyz" (1856) and "Sketches of Dzungaria" (1860).The article provides an in-depth analysis of the samples of folklore literature of the Kazakhs and Kyrgyz (genealogy, poems) in the research of Sh.Ualikhanov.The authors focus on epic poems such as "Manas", "Kozy Korpesh-Bayan Sulu" and, through their comparative analysis, identify the spiritual and cultural foundations common to the two peoples.Sh.Ualikhanov's conclusions that Islam gradually entered the traditional way of life of the Kazakhs and Kyrgyz through adaptation to historical and social conditions have not lost their significance.Ualikhanov's works contain valuable data on pastoralism, agriculture, urban culture, and craftsmanship.By providing information on traces of early and medieval urban settlements, irrigation systems, and architectural monuments in Kazakh and Kyrgyz territories, he offers concrete evidence for the development of sedentary life in medieval Kazakhstan, particularly in the Ili Valley.His research notes that the area of present-day Almaty once served as an important trade and caravan station along the Silk Road.Ualikhanov's insights into the climatic features of the steppe, the structure of pasture-use systems, migration routes, and the ecological adaptability of nomadic pastoralism continue to retain scholarly relevance.