THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF QASIM AWEZOV IN KARAKALPAK CULTURAL AND POLITICAL HISTORY

Qasim Awezov was a prominent Karakalpak statesman, educator, poet, and founder of Karakalpak national theatre. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of his life, emphasizing his contributions to Karakalpak education, literature, and cultural modernization. Furthermore, it examines the sociopolitical challenges he faced under Soviet rule, highlighting his achievements in establishing national dramaturgy and modern schooling, as well as the tragic consequences of political repression. By integrating historical, cultural, and literary perspectives, the study demonstrates how Awezov’s intellectual and administrative activities shaped the development of Karakalpak national identity.