Topic – World history
2) Afghanistan is rightly called the graveyard of empires. Discuss.(250 words)
Why this question
The article discusses the various failed attempts made by the powers of the world in subjugating Afghanistan due to its strategic significance. All such attempts including the US war on Afghanistan has failed to bring any fruit for the aggressors. The question would enable us to revise British foreign policy and cold war.
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to discuss the various attempts made by several countries in exerting control over Afghanistan but ended up counting their wounds. The question expects us to discuss the reasons for it. We can relate the question to the present context where USA is facing a similar situation in Afghanistan and discuss its impact.
Directive word
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Highlight about the US war on Afghanistan and how it turned out for USA.
Body
- Discuss the various attempts made at subjugating Afghanistan such as the Anglo Afghan wars and its result, the result of USSR’s intervention in Afghanistan and lastly the result of the current US war on Afghanistan.
- Discuss the reasons for the failure of several world power in exerting their control over Afghanistan – tough geography, lack of understanding of the tribal loyalties of the country etc
- Discuss the impact of likely withdrawal of USA from Afghanistan and how it impacts India
Conclusion – Give your view on how apt it is to call Afghanistan as the graveyard of empires.
