Afghanistan: The Perpetual Victim of Great Power Rivalry - A Comparative Historical Analysis

Abstract

Throughout modern and pre-modern history, the Afghan land has been the battleground for a plethora of foreign powers for strategic, political and economic interests. This paper will look at the motives behind the recurring nature of the Great Powers' interventions in Afghanistan and how these interventions have never resulted in any enduring control over the people of Afghanistan. The position of the country, the multi-tribal and social system, topography, a fragmented political system and the oppositional culture, deeply embedded in the country, all play their part to thwart foreign occupation. The comparative analysis of the three historical episodes of this Great Game of the twentieth century, the Soviet Union's participation in the Cold War and the retreat of the United States since 2001 shows that there are certain patterning’s of miscalculation, asymmetric resistance, and withdrawal. Some of the (much-needed) historical lessons and practical tips on the conduct of future international relations with Afghanistan have been included in the paper. The theme: Afghanistan, great power politics, Great Game, Soviet intervention, US led war, geopolitics, resistance, buffer state, graveyard of empires.