Dynamics of ethno-demographic processes in Akmola region (according to population censuses data)

Abstract

The article examines the significance of studying ethnic history and ethno-demographic processes from the perspective of the implementation of state national policy. The formation dynamics of the ethnic structure of Akmola region on the materials of the censuses of 1897–2021 is shown in the context of socio-political and socio-economic processes that took place at different stages of the history of the Russian Empire, the USSR, the Republic of Kazakhstan. The novelty of the article is determined by the fact that while there are a number of works on the history of individual ethnic groups in Akmola region, a general analysis of the ethnodemographic dynamics and the main stages in the formation of a multiethnic population have not yet been undertaken. The main factors that defined the formation of the ethnic structure of the region and its subsequent changes in the Soviet period were the large-scale resettlement movement, including the cultivation of the virgin land, external labour migration, political repression and deportations. During the period of independence, the redistribution of the population between different parts of Kazakhstan and the strengthening of the role of Astana and the capital region as the centre of demographic gravity became significant. Moreover, the statistical indicators were affected by frequent changes in the administrative boundaries of the region. It is concluded that the ethnic structure of the region remains multi-ethnic and constantly changing, and that ethno-demographic tendencies generally correspond to the processes taking place in Kazakhstan as a whole. The history of individual ethnic groups has been studied unevenly up until now, so further systematic research into the history and cultural heritage of the peoples of Akmola region and Northern Kazakhstan is required.