The Role of Post-Independence History in Legitimizing Authority: The Case of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

• In Event: Legitimizing and Contesting Soviet/Post-Soviet Authority across Time and Space

Abstract

The paper aims to highlight the connection between historical narratives regarding the post-independence period and their role in legitimizing authority. I argue the Kazakh and Uzbek elites are creating the official historical narratives in a specific manner, predominantly highlighting achievements while downplaying or blurring events uncomfortable for authorities. Occasionally, they emphasise the harsh economic, and social conditions resulting from the Soviet rule. Such narratives may serve several objectives, including legitimizing authority domestically and contributing to the legitimization and nation-branding efforts internationally.
The concept of politics of memory is central to this study. While the politics of memory can contribute to the integration of society and the creation of collective identity, it is also crucial to recognize its potential for consolidating power.
Discourse analysis is the main research method, with a particular focus on analyzing predicates and metaphors. This analysis includes statements and publications of the Central Asian presidents. Conclusions drawn from observations of museum exhibitions and public spaces are also included. During the observations, the author paid particular attention to the narrative about the selected events, as well as the manner of exposition – identifying which characters and events receive more attention and are placed in central locations, and which are intentionally overlooked and presented in less noticeable places.

Author

• Tomasz Waśkiel, U of Wrocław (Poland)