Afghanistan : a cultural and political history / Thomas Barfield.

Contents: People and places—Conquering and ruling pre-modern Afghanistan—Anglo-Afghan Wars and state building in Afghanistan—Afghanistan in the twentieth century : state and society in conflict—Afghanistan enters the twenty-first century—Some conclusions.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [359]-366) and index.

This fascinating survey of Afghanistan is an excellent book for those wanting to go beyond headlines. Written by an expert, with the stylistic flair to be savored by the nonexpert, Afghanistan also has judgments worthy of scholarly reflection. Barfield has captured political, social, and cultural insights of extraordinary importance to the policy arguments of today and tomorrow. Deploying diplomats, soldiers, and aid workers in particular should pay attention—cover page.