Kazakhstan Quiz Part 2: Nomadic Heritage and Modern Marvels

How well do you know Kazakhstan?

Test your knowledge of Kazakhstan with these 10 questions. Choose the best answer for each question and see your score at the end!

• 1. What is "Beshbarmak," the national dish of Kazakhstan, literally translated to mean?

  • (A) "Five fingers," as it was traditionally eaten by hand
  • (B) "Hot pot"
  • (C) "Shepherd's meal"
  • (D) "Celebration rice"

• 2. What is a "yurt," a symbol of Kazakh nomadic heritage?

  • (A) A type of eagle used for hunting
  • (B) A permanent brick house
  • (C) A portable, round tent covered with skins or felt
  • (D) A traditional embroidered coat

• 3. What is the importance of hospitality in Kazakh culture?

  • (A) It is considered a minor courtesy
  • (B) Guests are expected to pay for their meals
  • (C) Hospitality is a sacred duty, and guests are treated with utmost honor and respect
  • (D) Only family members are welcomed as guests

• 4. What is "Kumis," a traditional Kazakh fermented drink?

  • (A) Fermented cow's milk
  • (B) Fermented mare's (horse) milk
  • (C) A type of fruit juice
  • (D) A strong black tea

• 5. How is respect for elders shown in Kazakh society?

  • (A) By addressing them by their first name
  • (B) By never questioning their opinion and always yielding to them in conversation
  • (C) By avoiding them in social gatherings
  • (D) By expecting them to serve the meal

• 6. The Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world's first and largest operational space launch facility, is located in which country?

  • (A) United States
  • (B) Russia
  • (C) China
  • (D) Kazakhstan (leased to Russia)

• 7. What is the "Dombra," a core instrument in Kazakh folk music?

  • (A) A type of drum
  • (B) A long-necked, two-stringed lute
  • (C) A flute made of wood
  • (D) A large harp

• 8. What does the holiday "Nauryz" celebrate in Kazakhstan?

  • (A) The end of winter and the arrival of spring (New Year)
  • (B) Independence Day
  • (C) A religious fast
  • (D) The summer solstice

• 9. What is a common feature of a traditional Kazakh wedding?

  • (A) It is a very small, private event
  • (B) The bride's family pays a large sum to the groom's family
  • (C) It is a large celebration with many guests, elaborate rituals, and gift-giving
  • (D) The ceremony is held in complete silence

• 10. The tradition of "berkutchi," or eagle hunting, is a heritage practice of which culture?

  • (A) Japanese
  • (B) Scottish
  • (C) Kazakh
  • (D) Brazilian