Afghanistan: Graveyard of Empires

Introduction

• America spent ~$2 Trillion on Afghan wars over 20 years.
• Taliban gaining control as US Army withdraws.
• Less than 50% of Afghanistan under Afghan Government control.
• Effects felt in India due to proximity.

Tribute to Danish Siddiqui

• Award-winning Indian photojournalist killed by Taliban.
• Known for truthfulness and bravery in scenes like farmers' protest, corona crisis, and migrant crisis.

Historical Context:

Afghanistan: The Graveyard of Empires

• Multiple superpowers have faced humiliating defeats: British in the 19th century, Soviet Union in the 20th century, and USA in the 21st century.
• However, ancient conquerors like Alexander, Arabs, Mongols, Mughals, and Sikhs did hold power temporarily.

British and Russian Feud (19th Century)

• 1800s: British in the South and Russian Empire in the North; Afghanistan as a buffer zone.
• First Anglo-Afghan War (1838-1842): British overthrew Emir Dost Mohammad but eventually failed.
• Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880): British partially controlled Afghanistan but didn't settle.
• Durand Line (1893): Established as the border between British India and Afghanistan.

Early 20th Century

• 1907: Britain and Russia's agreement leaving Afghanistan in Britain's sphere of influence.
• Third Anglo-Afghan War (1919): Afghanistan fights for full independence from Britain.
• Emir Amanullah Khan (1926): Liberal reforms including women’s rights and secular education.
• 1929: Rebellion forces Amanullah Khan into exile; replaced by Nadir Shah and later Zahir Shah (1933-1973).

Modern Developments (1933-1973)

• Zahir Shah's 40-year reign: Modernization and improved foreign relations.
• 1964 Constitution: Introduced parliamentary elections, women’s suffrage.

Daoud Khan's Rule (1973-1978)

• 1973: Daoud Khan’s bloodless coup; established Afghanistan as a Republic.
• Initial support from the Soviet Union; later pursued non-alignment.
• 1977: New Constitution with Islam, Nationalism, and Socialism.
• Increasing authoritarianism led to civil unrest.

Soviet Invasion and Saur Revolution (1978-1979)

• April 1978: Saur Revolution – Communist coup; Daoud Khan assassinated.
• Nur Muhammad Taraki's rule: Progressive reforms clashed with Islamist ideology.
• September 1979: Taraki assassinated; Power struggles lead Soviet Union to invade Afghanistan.

Cold War Dynamics

• USA and Soviet Union's proxy war through Afghan Mujahideen and Communist factions, respectively.
• USA funding Mujahideen against Soviet forces.
• Prelude to rise of Taliban and Osama bin Laden.
• Conclusion: To be continued with focus on Taliban and further US involvement in next episode.

Closing

• Video overall discusses the historical causes and effects of foreign intervention in Afghanistan.
• More information on the Taliban and US involvement in the next episode.