The history of the 20th century, like any era, is made up of the lives of individual people. This book shares personal stories of those who lived in Kyrgyzstan during the Soviet era − stories that have long been forgotten or deliberately silenced. It’s crucial for us to listen to each voice − not the collective narrative of the masses, the state, or authorities, but the diverse, often unheard, and sometimes deeply personal voices of individuals who deserve to be remembered. We aim to move beyond simplistic black-and-white portrayals. Our perspective is that the history of both the Soviet period and independent Kyrgyzstan remains incomplete and insufficiently understood, especially from a human standpoint. In exploring the past, we draw on the field of memory studies − one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving areas in contemporary social and humanitarian knowledge.
… Sometimes it feels as if independence simply fell into our hands. But in truth, many people – both within the country and beyond – fought for it, contributed to it, and paid a price for it. Today, we have heard so many stories – so many lives, fates. Without knowing them, it becomes difficult to answer the most important questions: Where do we stand now? Where are we headed? It is essential that we ask ourselves: What major events shaped our history? What caused them? Are we doing enough today to prevent such things from happening again? That is why books like this matter. They help us reflect. They help us remember. And most importantly, they help us carry these memories forward—to future generations.
Abdyvahap Nurbaev – public figure, entrepreneur, and member of the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic (2015–2021) – during an interview with Zairbek Azhimatov at the presentation of the book Fates, December 2019, Bishkek.
Authors:
Amirbek Usmanov, journalist (Radio Liberty/Azattyk), publicist, Honorary Professor of Osh State University. Prague.
Bektash Shamshiev, journalist (Radio Liberty/Azattyk), publicist, translator. Bishkek. Gulzada Abdalieva, historian, associate professor at the I.Arabaev Kyrgyz State University. Bishkek.
Shavkat Ismailov, member of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, Chairman of the NGO “Kyrgyzstan-Astana.” Astana.
Temirlan Ibraimov, lawyer, constitutionalist. Bishkek.
Aidai Algozhoeva, program manager,
Center Polis Asia, Esimde research platform, Bishkek.
Baktygul Zhumakadyr kyzy, historian, chief archivist of the Ysyk-Köl Regional State Archive. Karakol.
Elmira Nogoibaeva (Abylbek), researcher, Discussion platform “Rethinking Our Own History.” Bishkek.
Reviewers:
S. Abashin – Doctor of historical sciences, Professor at the European University at St. Petersburg.
T. A. Abdyrakhmanov – Doctor of historical sciences, Professor at Kyrgyz State University named after I. Arabaev.
