Abstract
This article analyzes how biographical narratives of Kazakh statehood in school history textbooks function as mechanisms of ontological security. Grounded in ontological security theory, the study combines discourse analysis of textbooks with semi-structured interviews with experts and textbook authors. It identifies three narrative constructions that reproduce continuity and historical depth. The article argues that in response to recognition denial and external challenges, these narratives operate as state-led efforts to stabilize national identity through claims of uninterrupted statehood. The study contributes to debates on identity, narrative, and security in post-Soviet international relations.