The life path and scientific work of A.N. Bernshtam

Abstract

The article is devoted to the contribution of A.N. Bernshtam, one of the organizers of the Kazakh archaeological science. He conducted the first archaeological excavations on many monuments in the country, drew conclusions on the most important historical and archaeological issues, and made a significant contribution to the development of archaeological science in Kazakhstan. The article provides data on childhood, student life, the first scientific search for a scientist, his formation as a teacher and his achievements in the study of archaeological monuments of the Bronze Age, the Early Iron Age and the medieval period of the history of Kazakhstan. When writing the article, a bibliographic (biographical) method was used, which allows not only to consider the history of the scientist's life and work, but also to show what an outstanding person A.N. Bernshtam was. The biographical research method helps to reconstruct the process of formation of Alexander Bernshtam a professional scientist in conjunction with the analysis of his individual qualities, position in society and the influence of cultural and ethical indicators. The scientific activity of the scientist was also considered in connection with the political conditions and the development of science of that period, his role in the formation of Kazakh archaeology was evaluated. The article considers the publications in which A.N. Bernshtam's ideas about the progressive role of the invasion of the Huns, which contributed to the destruction of the slave-owning system and the establishment of feudal relations, were criticized. The issues related to the accusations of the researcher as a pan-Turkist who opposed Stalin's ideas, which had a negative impact on his scientific and pedagogical activities, were also touched upon.