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This chronological account traces the history of Afghanistan from pre-civilization to present-day events and considers the future of democracy in Afghanistan.
For centuries, Afghanistan has endured control by a gamut of political regimes as a result of its strategic location along the trade route between Asia and the Middle East. The area has been at the center of constant conflict and only in recent years has recovered from the vestiges of warfare. The second edition of this popular reference offers a fresh glimpse at the country, showing modern Afghanistan to be a melting pot of cultures, tribes, and political influences all under the guiding belief of Islam.
In addition to thorough coverage of the country's political, economic, and cultural history, the book provides students with an account of recent events in Afghanistan since 2007, such as the death of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan and the removal of NATO soldiers. Other changes include a revised timeline, an updated glossary, additions to the notable figures appendix, and an expanded bibliography that includes electronic resources.
List of contents
Series Foreword
Preface
Introduction
Timeline of Historical Events
1 The Three Pillars of Afghanistan: Geography, People, and Islam
2 Prehistory: The Emergence of Civilization in Ancient Afghanistan
3 Early Civilization and the Nomadic People of Afghanistan
4 Afghanistan from Hellenistic Culture to the Introduction of Islam
5 The Mongolian Invasion of Afghanistan through the Shah Dynasty
6 The Birth of Modern Afghanistan (1747-1826)
7 European Influence in Afghanistan (1826-1919)
8 From the Age of Reformation to the War with the Soviets (1919-1979)
9 The Soviet Invasion and Occupation of Afghanistan (1979-1989)
10 Afghan Fundamentalism and the Taliban Regime (1989-2001)
11 Afghanistan after September 11, 2001
12 The Decade to Find Osama Bin Laden
13 Looking Back: The Road to Democracy in Afghanistan
14 The Future of Afghanistan
Notable People in the History of Afghanistan
Glossary of Frequently Used Terms
Timeline of Rulers of Afghanistan
Chronological List of Recent Leaders of Afghanistan
Bibliography
Index
About the author
Meredith L. Runion is a Program Manager for the Federal Government.
