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Return Of A King
560 pages, 2013
In a bold and revelatory book that draws on newly discovered primary sources from archives in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia and India--including a series of previously untranslated Afghan epic poems and biographies--the author gives us the most immediate and comprehensive account yet of the spectacular first battle for Afghanistan: the British invasion of the remote kingdom in 1839.
Led by lancers in scarlet cloaks and plumed helmets, and facing little resistance from Afghan tribesmen armed only with scythes and ancient muskets, nearly 20,000 British troops poured through mountain passes from India into Afghanistan to reestablish Shah Shuja ul-Mulk on the throne as their puppet ruler.
But after two years of battles against Afghan tribesmen who rose up to answer their country's call for jihad (holy war), an entire army of what was then the most powerful military nation in the world was ambushed and destroyed in snowbound mountain passes by simply equipped Afghan tribesmen.
The Return of a King is both the definitive analysis of the First Anglo-Afghan War and a work of stunning topicality, informed by the author's decades-long firsthand knowledge of Afghanistan and superbly shaped by his gifts as a historian and his singular eye for evocative description.
In 'Return Of A King', William Dalrymple takes us back to the First Anglo-Afghan War. He explores the reasons behind the conflict, the key players, and the devastating outcomes. It's a great chance to dig into a significant historical event that still impacts the world today.
Dalrymple's book offers a deep look into the British Empire's strategies and tactics. It shows how the empire's desire for control and power led to disastrous consequences. If you're interested in the history of imperialism, this book is a must-read.
One key takeaway from 'Return Of A King' is the importance of understanding and respecting other cultures. The British failed to do this in Afghanistan, leading to their downfall. This book serves as a reminder of the consequences of cultural ignorance.
Dalrymple's meticulous research is evident in 'Return Of A King'. He uses a variety of sources, including Afghan epic poems and firsthand accounts, to paint a vivid picture of the war. This book shows the value of thorough research in understanding history.
The events described in 'Return Of A King' may have happened in the 19th century, but they still have relevance today. The book highlights how past events shape the present and future, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in global politics and history.
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Dalrymple's 'Return of a King' is a remarkable feat of historical storytelling, a tale of high adventure and imperial folly that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.
Salman Rushdie - British Indian novelistDalrymple's 'Return of a King' is a masterful reconstruction of the First Afghan War. It is a cautionary tale of imperial hubris and its tragic consequences.
The Economist - International weekly newspaperDalrymple's 'Return of a King' is a riveting, brilliantly researched account of a little-known chapter in colonial history. It is a work of high scholarship and compelling storytelling.
The New York Times - American newspaperDalrymple's 'Return of a King' is a meticulously researched, beautifully written history of a disastrous British invasion of Afghanistan. It is a cautionary tale of imperial overreach and a must-read for history buffs.
The Wall Street Journal - American business-focused newspaperDalrymple's 'Return of a King' is a masterful account of the First Afghan War, a story of imperial folly and hubris that resonates today. It is a work of high scholarship and compelling storytelling.
The Washington Post - American newspaper