A.I. Tevkelev’s Embassy to the Kazakh Steppe in 1731–1732

The publication researches the role of interpreter of the Foreign Affairs Collegium of the Russian Empire Alexei Ivanovich (Kutlu-Muhammed) Tevkelev, a future major official of the Orenburg province and military figure, in formation and development of Russian-Kazakh diplomatic relations throughout the beginning of the 18 th century.Having a set of professional skills of an experienced diplomat, which include including proficiency in several languages, including Kazakh, as well as detailed knowledge of the peculiarities of steppe life and customs, Alexei Ivanovich figured prominently in establishment of regular relations of the Russian state with Kazakh khanates.Throughout his career, A.I. Tevkelev undertook numerous diplomatic missions into the Kazakh steppe.One of the most notable episodes was Tevkelev's mission, during which Khan Abulkhair of the Younger Zhuz, along with part of his followers, pledged allegiance and formally entered into the citizenship of Russian state.Based on the written sources the state of affairs at the khan's court, which was clearly difficult and dangerous for the Russian diplomat, and required from him the demonstration extraordinary diplomatic abilities.The particular emphasis is placed on study of A.I. Tevkelev's relations with Kazakh leaders -khans, sultans and batyrs and shows the significance of gifts presented to them.