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Abdur-RahmanEmir of Afghanistan.
Country:
 Afghanistan |
Content:
- Abdur Rahman Khan: The Emir of Afghanistan
- Throne and Conflict
- Exile and Return
- Second Anglo-Afghan War and Opportunity
- Consolidation of Power
- Emir of Afghanistan
- Diplomatic Success
Abdur Rahman Khan: The Emir of Afghanistan
Abdur Rahman Khan, born into Afghan royalty, was appointed ruler of Tash-Kurgan in his youth. He participated in campaigns against rebellious Afghan tribes.
Throne and Conflict
In 1864, Abdur Rahman fought alongside his father, Afzul Khan, and uncle, Azim Khan, against the formidable emir Shir Ali Khan. In 1866, they conquered Kabul, where his father established his reign.
However, after his father's death in 1867 and Azim Khan's exile by Shir Ali, Abdur Rahman fled to Bukhara but faced indifference. He returned to Balkh and continued fighting against Shir Ali.
Exile and Return
Defeated at Ghazni, Abdur Rahman sought refuge in British India but shifted his allegiance to Russia, arriving in Samarkand in 1870. In his autobiography, he fondly recalled his time with the Russians.
Second Anglo-Afghan War and Opportunity
In 1878, the Second Anglo-Afghan War erupted. While living in exile in Samarkand, Abdur Rahman saw an opportunity to reclaim the throne.
Consolidation of Power
In 1880, he returned to Afghanistan and rallied supporters in Afghan Turkestan. Recognizing his growing influence, the British dispatched diplomat Lepel Griffin to negotiate. Abdur Rahman initially refused British proposals for a divided Afghanistan, insisting on ruling over all territories.
Emir of Afghanistan
After prolonged negotiations, the British conceded to Abdur Rahman's demands. On May 1880, at the Kabul Durbar, he was elected Emir of Afghanistan and recognized by the British. On July 22, 1880, he was formally proclaimed emir.
Diplomatic Success
Following the British defeat in Afghanistan, Abdur Rahman renegotiated the terms of the Treaty of Gandamak. While limiting Afghanistan's sovereignty, he successfully preserved its territorial integrity.
