Zaman-Shah Descendant of Ahmed Shah, the founder of the Afghan kingdom Country: Afghanistan

1. Zaman Shah Durrani
2. Intervention in India
3. Conflict with the Barakzais
4. Overthrow and Blinding

Zaman Shah Durrani

Zaman Shah Durrani was a descendant of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the founder of the Afghan Empire in the mid-18th century. He was the son of Timur Shah and ascended to the throne in 1793.

Intervention in India

In 1796, Zaman Shah intervened in Indian affairs and marched towards Delhi to liberate the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II from the Marathas. This expedition left a significant impression on the British in India. However, before reaching Delhi, Zaman Shah turned back and returned to his capital, Kabul, where chaos erupted.

Conflict with the Barakzais

Zaman Shah owed his throne to the efforts of Sarfraz Khan, a Barakzai chief. However, in 1799, Zaman Shah ordered Sarfraz Khan's execution, alienating the entire Barakzai tribe. The Barakzais turned their support to Zaman Shah's brother, Mahmud, who was vying for the throne.

Overthrow and Blinding

Led by Fateh Khan, Sarfraz Khan's son, the Barakzais captured Zaman Shah and ordered his eyes to be gouged out in 1800. Mahmud Shah then ascended to the throne, ending Zaman Shah's reign.