This article discusses the history of formation and development of one of the important regions of East Kazakhstan. Shemonaikhinsky district is one of the most developed in Eastern Kazakhstan. The main areas of the economy are mining, agricultural production, and food production. Convenient geographical location, variety of natural conditions and resources influenced the active development of the territory, determined the main directions of economic development of the district. In the process of drawing up a historical and geographical sketch of the shemonaikhinsky district, the history of the formation and development of settlements in this district is clearly traced. Based on data analysis, the author shows that the development of the area was facilitated by mineral deposits: polymetallic ores and flat (mostly) terrain. Arable farming was developed in the flat areas, and there are also haymaking grounds for providing hay for cattle.