The Kazakhs: Children of the Steppes

Here is a well-informed, concise introduction to the culture and history of the vast territory of Kazakhstan, equivalent to the size of Western Europe, located at the centre of geographical Eurasia. Written by two brothers, one a distinguished scholar and the other well known in Kazakhstan's media the book focuses on the Kazakh people who today make up over half the population of some 15 million. Topics covered include Kazakhstan's historical heritage including the Soviet legacy, its geography and the national psychology, religion and culture and how to do business. Kazakhstan first appeared on the world stage in 2001 with the opening of its oil pipeline linking its vast Tengiz oil field with the Russian Black Sea port of Novorosslysk, and more widely popularized in 2006 thanks to the humor of British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen in his film "Borat".