The Kazakh SSR (Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic) was a republic within the former Soviet Union from 1936 until its independence in 1991. It covered a vast area in Central Asia, primarily inhabited by ethnic Kazakhs, along with various other ethnic groups. The capital was initially Alma-Ata, which later became known as Almaty. During its existence, the Kazakh SSR underwent significant industrialization and urbanization, particularly in the mid-20th century. The republic was known for its rich natural resources, including minerals and oil, which contributed to the Soviet economy. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan emerged as an independent nation.