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.

Years of war, devastation, and conflict taint the history of Afghanistan.

Series ForewordPrefaceIntroductionTimeline of Historical Events1 The Three Pillars of Afghanistan: Geography, People, and Islam2 Prehistory: The Emergence of Civilization in Ancient Afghanistan3 Early Civilization and the Nomadic People of Afghanistan4 Afghanistan from Hellenistic Culture to the Introduction of Islam5 The Mongolian Invasion of Afghanistan through the Shah Dynasty6 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, 200112 The Decade to Find Osama Bin Laden13 Looking Back: The Road to Democracy in Afghanistan14 The Future of AfghanistanNotable People in the History of AfghanistanGlossary of Frequently Used TermsTimeline of Rulers of AfghanistanChronological List of Recent Leaders of AfghanistanBibliographyIndex