Аннотации:
This paper presents the results of stable isotope analysis of the Saka period population of
Central Kazakhstan. The analysed materials originate from 37 sites of the Tasmola Culture
which is presently dated to the 8th – 5th c. BC. The sample include 31 humans from 31 burials
and 6 animals from three settlements and three burials. Human isotopic results are widely
scattered both in δ13C, and in δ15N ratios from the cemeteries of Koitas, Taldy-2, Akbeit and
Karashoky. The obtained data suggests the presence of millet in Central Kazakhstan in the
beginning of the Early Iron Age, either as agricultural crop or imported product. The fi ndings
of a small quantity of millet and barley grains in the cultural layer of one of the Tasmola
Culture settlements supports this hypothesis. These fi ndings represent the fi rst phase of the
research. A more representative series of samples, including faunal, is needed for a more
comprehensive investigation of the topic.
