Kazakh Historian Debunks Soviet Myth: Firearms Were Used Centuries Ago

The Myth of Kazakh Firearm Absence: A Historian Challenges Soviet-Era Narrative Kazakhstan - A recent video featuring historian Kaliulla Ahmetzhanov has sparked renewed discussion about the historical use of firearms among Kazakhs. For decades, a narrative persisted, largely stemming from the Soviet era, that Kazakhs lacked widespread access to firearms. Ahmetzhanov directly challenges this claim. "The absence of firearms among Kazakhs is a Soviet myth," Ahmetzhanov states in the video. He supports this by citing various historical sources, including written accounts and oral traditions, that detail the use of firearms in battles and sieges. He points to specific examples, such as the siege of Sauran, where he notes the presence of firearm-wielding Kazakh defenders. The video also showcases historical artifacts, such as firearms from the relevant period, lending visual weight to Ahmetzhanov's arguments. His detailed analysis of historical records provides compelling evidence to counter the long-standing misconception. Ahmetzhanov's work is a valuable contribution to Kazakh history, offering a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the role of firearms in Kazakh warfare and society. His research helps to correct a historical inaccuracy that has persisted for too long.