The Karachay-Balkar people are a Turkic ethnic group primarily residing in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic and the Kabardino-Balkar Republic in the Russian Federation. They speak the Karachay-Balkar language, which belongs to the Kipchak branch of the Turkic languages. Their culture is rich in traditions, including music, dance, and crafts, reflecting their historical roots in the Caucasus region. The Karachay-Balkar people have a diverse history influenced by various empires and cultures, including the Golden Horde and the Russian Empire. They are known for their resilience, having faced significant challenges, including deportations during World War II. Today, they maintain their cultural identity while integrating into modern Russian society.