Afghanistan has experienced a long history of invasions spanning centuries, from Alexander the Great to the British, Soviets, and the United States. These conflicts have shaped Afghanistan's political landscape and resulted in various periods of foreign rule and resistance movements.
Here's a chronological overview:
- Ancient Period: Alexander the Great conquered the region in the 4th century BC.
- Muslim Conquests: The region was subject to a series of Muslim conquests from the 7th to the 10th centuries.
- Mongol Invasion: Genghis Khan's Mongol Empire invaded in the 13th century.
- British Invasions: Great Britain invaded three times during the 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking to counter Russian influence and secure its Indian empire.
- Soviet Invasion: The Soviet Union invaded in 1979, leading to a protracted conflict and the rise of the Mujahideen.
- US-led Invasion: The US and its allies invaded in 2001, following the 9/11 attacks, toppling the Taliban regime.
- Ongoing Conflict: Despite the initial invasion, Afghanistan has remained in a state of conflict, with the Taliban regaining control in 2021 after the withdrawal of US-led forces.
