Rafis Abazov will talk about his book Historical Dictionary of Turkmenistan and he will focus on one aspect of contemporary cultural and economic development in Turkmenistan – carpet-making. He will use an example of Turkmenistan and its hand-made carpet industry to discuss the development of small businesses and economic changes in Central Asia.
There also be an exhibition of photos and rugs from Turkmenistan.
All welcome. Tea and some oriental snack will be available.

Wednesday, February 9, 2005, 06.00-07.30 p.m., Harriman Institute, room 1219.

Rafis Abazov, Historical Dictionary of Turkmenistan. Lanham Maryland and London: Scarecrow Press, 2005. 352 pp. (civ + 240 pp). ISBN 0-08108-5362-0.

This is the first comprehensive reference book on Turkmenistan published in English, that provides comprehensive up-to-date details about the contemporary history, economy, and culture. The dictionary consists of approximately 300 entries and is cross-referenced to make sure that it is easy to use by international consultants, NGO activists, policy makers, experienced scholars or young students interested in a history of Turkmens and Turkmen land. The substantial bibliography helps readers to find materials and resources in specialized subject areas.

The dictionary provides a concise overview of the historical development of Turkmenistan. The introduction and chronology provide an overview of the Turkmen history, focusing on the history of the country in the 20th century, political and economic development, ethnic policies and nation building.

Rafis Abazov is an adjunct professor at the Harriman Institute of Columbia University, New York. He is the author of three books and numerous research articles on economic and political development in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan.