Reaching back to earliest times, Martin Ewans examines the historical evolution of one of todays most dangerous breeding grounds of global terrorism. Following a succession of early dynasties and the emergence of an Afghan empire during the 18th century, the 19th and early 20th century saw a fierce power struggle between Russia and Britain for colonial supremacy in Afghanistan, which was ended by the nations proclamation of independence in 1919. A communist coup in the late 1970s overthrew the established regime and led to the invasion of Soviet troops in 1979. Roughly a decade later the Soviet Union withdrew, condemning Afghanistan to a civil war that tore apart the nations last remnants of religious, ethnic, and political unity. It was into this climate that the Taliban was born. Today, war-torn and economically destitute, Afghanistan faces unique challenges as it looks towards an uncertain future. Martin Ewans carefully weighs the lessons of history to provide a frank look at Afghanistans future and the international resonances of the nations immense task of total political and economic reconstruction.