Uzbeks
History of the Uzbek ethnicity. Uzbeks have a mixed anthropological origin: mainly European and partly Mongolian. Uzbeks practice Islam, its Sunni branch.
Historically, the Uzbek ethnicity has developed in Central Asia, between the two rivers (the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya) along with the ancient natives of the region—Soghds, Bactrians, Sak-massagets, and other ethnic groups. Later, they were called by the single name "Uzbek".
The traditional way of life of Uzbeks has historically been connected with farming, horticulture, craftsmanship, trade, and animal husbandry. Family relations and the distribution of labor were quite unique: generally, men were in charge of forming, gardening and craftsmanship; women took care of all the household activities including cooking, weaving, looking after domestic animals, and bringing up babies.
In foothills and desert areas the animal husbandry was the main activity. Craftsmanship was the major type of work in cities. Skilled craftsmen made different products and items including silk, various textile and household materials. Daily activities of people had an impact on their cultural and social characteristics.
National Uzbek clothes have also been developed according to climatic characteristics, as well as historical and ethnic-regional features. That is why, the dress attributes in southern regions are quite different from those in northern or eastern provinces. However, now it is usual for many Uzbeks to wear European style dress. During national ceremonies artists usually wear national dress.
Traditional dress can be seen particularly in provinces, and village areas. Most women wear traditionally designed dresses made of national fabrics such as atlas, khonatlas, shoyi, and others. For men living in village areas the most popular attire is the chapan (robe) and doppy (head dress), embroidered with needlework.
Uzbek national cuisine is very delicious. Popular national dishes are plov (palov), lagmon, manti, kabab, shorva, and mastava. The most popular pilov made of rice, meat, oil, carrot, onion, and various spices. People eat a lot of fruit and vegetables. Besides fruits, there are different kinds of nuts, sweets, and cookies on the national Uzbek table. One cannot imagine Uzbeks' table without Uzbek style bread and the most appreciated drink - tea. There are number of different types of bread in different areas of the country.
Kazakhstan
Kyrgyzstan
Tajikistan
Turkmenistan
Uzbekistan