Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, a landlocked nation that borders both China and Russia. Kazakhstan has long struggled to find its own identity. Since declaring independence in 1991 after the breakup of the Soviet Union, Kazakhs have struggled to regain their unique culture. This volume takes readers through its past and current events, across mountains and valleys, and into the everyday lives of its citizens, using vivid photographs, engaging sidebars, and accessible maps. Readers explore Kazakhstan''s culture, geography, government, and people. They''ll be encouraged to develop an interest in global exploration, history, and current events.