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Ilyas DzhansugurovKazakh Soviet poet, classic of Kazakh literature
Date of Birth: 01.05.1894
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Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Self-Education and Literary Interest
- Literary Beginnings and Early Career
- Work in Education and Journalism
- Literary Output and Political Involvement
- "Kulager": A Poetic Masterpiece
- Political Activities and Literary Leadership
- Arrest, Execution, and Rehabilitation
- Posthumous Rehabilitation
- Literary Achievements and Influence
- Artistic Innovations and Folktale Preservation
- National Poet and Literary Icon
- Personal Life and Family
- Children
- Legacy and Honors
- Preservation of Literary Archives
- Ongoing Impact and Inspiration
Early Life and Education
Birth and ChildhoodIlyas Zhansugurov, a prominent Kazakh Soviet poet, was born on May 1, 1894, in the village of Aksuy No. 4 in the Kopal district of the Semirechensk region. Hailing from the Naiman tribe of the Middle Zhuz, he spent his early years living and working as a shepherd and farmer in his village.
Self-Education and Literary Interest
Due to the lack of schools in his area, Zhansugurov had no formal education. However, his thirst for knowledge led him to pursue self-education, enabling him to read and write in Kazakh. He developed a deep appreciation for folk literature, becoming a skilled performer of Kazakh epics and poems.
Literary Beginnings and Early Career
First Poems and Literary InfluencesZhansugurov began writing in 1912. His first poems, "Saryarka" and "Tilek," were published in the "Saryarka" magazine in 1917. He was heavily influenced by the works of Abai, Shangirei, Baytursynov, Bulatov, Karashev, and Khudaiberdiyev.
Work in Education and Journalism
After completing a short teacher training course in Tashkent in 1920, Zhansugurov worked as a teacher and a journalist for the newspaper "Tіlshі." In 1922, he became the head of the Institute of Education in Verny (now Almaty). From 1925 to 1928, he studied at the Communist Institute of Journalism in Moscow.
Literary Output and Political Involvement
Early Works and Epic PoemsDuring the 1920s and early 1930s, Zhansugurov published several significant works, including "Baishubar" (1923) and "Balalarga Tartu" (1926). His epic poems, "Kuy" (1929) and "Kuyshi" (1934), showcased his mastery of Kazakh music.
"Kulager": A Poetic Masterpiece
Zhansugurov's most renowned work is the epic poem "Kulager" (1937). Set against a tragic episode in the life of the 19th-century singer and poet Akan Seru, the poem captures the beauty of Kazakh oral poetry and the enduring themes of love, loss, and the triumph of art over adversity.
Political Activities and Literary Leadership
Zhansugurov joined the Russian Communist Party (Bolsheviks) in 1924. He served as the first chairman of the Writers' Union of Kazakhstan from 1932 to 1934. He was also an active participant in the First Congress of Soviet Writers in 1934.
Arrest, Execution, and Rehabilitation
Political Accusations and Tragic FateIn 1937, Zhansugurov was arrested on political charges. On February 26, 1938, he was executed by a "troika" of NKVD judges. His manuscript for "Kulager" was lost during his arrest, and copies of the newspaper where it was published were confiscated from libraries.
Posthumous Rehabilitation
Zhansugurov was posthumously rehabilitated in 1957. His literary legacy and contributions to Kazakh culture were recognized and celebrated.
Literary Achievements and Influence
Versatile WriterZhansugurov's literary output spanned poetry, drama, prose, feuilletons, satire, journalism, and translation. He played a crucial role in shaping the literary and cultural landscape of Kazakh society.
Artistic Innovations and Folktale Preservation
Zhansugurov creatively developed the traditions of Kazakh oral poetry and the literary legacy of Abai. He preserved and promoted Kazakh folklore through his translations and research.
National Poet and Literary Icon
Zhansugurov is considered one of the most important pioneers of Kazakh literature. His works have been widely read and studied, influencing generations of Kazakh writers and intellectuals.
Personal Life and Family
Four MarriagesZhansugurov married four times. His first three marriages ended in divorce or the death of his wives. In 1932, he married his fourth wife, Fatima Gabitova, who was the widow of the renowned pedagogue Bilyal Suleyev.
Children
Zhansugurov had six children: four biological children and two adopted sons from his wife's previous marriage. His daughter, Umut, became a doctor, and his son, Bulat, became a renowned Kazakhstani screenwriter.
Legacy and Honors
Memorialization and RecognitionAfter Kazakhstan's independence, Zhansugurov's legacy was officially recognized. His name was given to towns, educational institutions, museums, streets, and other public spaces throughout the country.
Preservation of Literary Archives
Parts of Zhansugurov's archives were preserved by his relatives and the NKVD investigator who had been ordered to destroy them. These materials have provided valuable insights into his life and work.
Ongoing Impact and Inspiration
Ilyas Zhansugurov's literary legacy continues to inspire and educate Kazakhstani readers and students. His works are an enduring testament to the power and beauty of Kazakh language and culture.
