ETHNIC IDENTITY IN URBAN AND RURAL SPACES: KEY INDICATORS OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE ALTAI KAZAKHS)

Background. In recent years, the study of multinational regions of the Russian Federation has become relevant, in the development of which various strategies and practices are observed in preserving their historical and cultural heritage. At the same time, the study of local communities, namely individual ethnic groups, is of particular interest. It is becoming important to study how the institution of heritage influences the processes of identity formation in these communities, whether it differs in urban and rural environments. Purpose. Analysis of the influence of the institute of historical and cultural heritage on the processes of preserving ethnic identity in urban and rural spaces, as well as identifying key indicators of identity. Materials and methods. The article presents and analyzes the results of an ethnographic study conducted by scientists and staff of the Altai State University in April-May 2024. The main research method was a sociological survey of representatives of the Kazakh ethnic group, namely residents of the «two Altais»: Altai Krai (Barnaul, Kirey and Mirabilit) and the Altai Republic (Gorno-Altaysk, Kosh-Agach, Zhana-aul). In addition, the theoretical part of the work is based on the concepts of studying ethnic groups: primordialism, constructivism and ethnosymbolism. Results. The obtained data were processed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, and comparative and content analyses were also conducted. The authors of the study noted key indicators of ethnic identity directly related to historical and cultural heritage: 1) historical narratives, 2) national language, 3) symbolic events, 4) traditions and customs, 5) household items, and 6) gastronomic culture. It is shown that ethnic identity is more stable in the rural environment. Both in urban and rural spaces, the phenomenon of "intersection of local cultures" is forming.