9781422275719

Introduction

Words to Understand Coup: A sudden takeover of a government. Insurgency: An organized movement aimed at overthrowing or destroy- ing a government. Mujahideen: Guerrilla fighters in Islamic countries. Patriarchy: A system of society or government in which power is held by men. Though diverse in ethnicities and rich in cultural traditions, it is the nation’s religion, Islam, that acts as both a binding force as well as a factor of division. Islam came to Afghanistan between 650 and 900 C.E. as a result of the Muslim conquests that swept across and out of Persia during those centuries. Almost every- one adheres to Islam, but conflict between Muslim sects and the political ambitions of the most prevalent ethnic groups prevent national unity. A s a landlocked country in central Asia, the region now known as Afghanistan has stood at the crossroads of empires from ancient to early modern times. Today, the country remains at the forefront of international attention as numerous terrorist organi- zations operate within its borders, and the ongoing war between the United States, its allies, and insurgency forces entered its 17th year in 2018. Untapped natural resources, underdeveloped infra- structure and industry, and agricultural practices that border on subsistence have contributed to long-term economic strife.Among the poorest nations in the world,Afghanistan struggles with low life expectancy and high infant mortality rates, and its citizens barely eke out a living—if they can do so at all—amid poor educational opportunities and ingrained cultural norms regarding patriarchy and gender roles.

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