Otemisuly, Makhambet | |
|---|---|
 2002 Kazakhstan stamp commemorating Makhambet | |
| Born | 1804 |
| Died | October 20, 1846 |
| Occupation | Poet |
Makhambet Otemisuly (Kazakh: Махамбет Өтемісұлы, Mahambet Ötemısūly; 1804 – October 20, 1846) was a Kazakh poet, composer and political figure. He is best known for his activity as a leader (with friend Isatay Taymanuly) of rebellions against Russian colonialism. This activity is believed to have resulted in his murder in 1846. His first rebellions took place against Zhangir-Kerey Khan of the Bukey Horde. Because the rebellion was badly defeated and a bounty was placed on Otemisuly, he had to flee the region.
Makhambet's early education took place at a Russian language school in Orenburg. However, his poetry was more closely tied to Kazakh culture and literary tradition. The major themes of his poetry were of two types: political criticism of Russia or the khan, or more general poetry devoted to themes about human existence and life.