| Synopsis: |
Afghanistan has long been considered the graveyard of empires. Throughout their history, Afghans have endured the ravages of foreign invaders, from marauding hordes & imperial armies to global superpowers, while demonstrating a fierce independence & strong resistance to outside occupiers. Those who have ventured into Afghanistan with notions of controlling its people have soon discovered that fighting in that rugged, hostile land is no easy task. Afghans have proven to be tenacious & unrelenting foes. This book examines this legacy of conflict, particularly from a Canadian perspective. What emerges is the difficulty faced by foreign forces attempting to impose their will over Afghans who, for their part, have consistently adapted tactics & strategies to stymie & defeat those they perceive as invaders & interlopers. It is within this complexity & challenge that the difficult counter-insurgency must be fought. |