The history of housing construction among the karakalpaks in the 19th-20th centuries

Аннотация

The history of housing construction among the Karakalpaks in the 19th and 20th centuries reflects a transition from traditional nomadic dwellings to modern urban structures influenced by Russian colonization and Soviet policies. Initially, Karakalpak housing consisted of portable yurts and mud-brick houses suited to the region’s climate and lifestyle. However, with increased contact with neighboring cultures and political changes, construction methods evolved, incorporating new materials and architectural designs. The Soviet period brought significant shifts, introducing standardized housing and urban planning while diminishing traditional architectural elements. Furthermore, environmental and economic factors, such as the Aral Sea crisis and industrialization, shaped housing development. Despite modernization, efforts to preserve Karakalpak architectural heritage continue. This study highlights the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernization in Karakalpak housing construction and its broader socio-cultural implications. Keywords: Karakalpak housing, traditional architecture, yurts, mud-brick houses, Russian colonization, Soviet modernization, urbanization, environmental impact, architectural heritage, housing transformation.