Return of a King

More about the book

Set against the backdrop of the 1839 British invasion of Afghanistan, the narrative explores the installation of Shah Shuja as a puppet ruler and the ensuing rebellion that led to a disastrous retreat for British forces. Dalrymple intricately connects historical events to contemporary issues, revealing the enduring tribal rivalries that shaped Afghanistan's politics. By examining the parallels between past and present leaders, he provides a comprehensive analysis of the complexities that have influenced both British and NATO engagements in the region, supported by newly uncovered primary sources.