A chronology of key events: 1838-42 - British forces invade,
install King Shah Shujah. He is assassinated in 1842. British
and Indian troops are massacred during retreat from Kabul.
1878-80 - Second Anglo-Afghan War. A treaty gives Britain
control of Afghan foreign affairs. 1919 - Emir Amanullah Khan
declares independence from British influence. 1926-29 -
Amanullah tries to introduce social reforms, which however stir
civil unrest. He flees. 1933 - Zahir Shah becomes king and
Afghanistan remains a monarchy for next four decades. 1953 -
General Mohammed Daud becomes prime minister. Turns to Soviet
Union for economic and military assistance. Introduces social
reforms, such as abolition of purdah (practice of secluding
women from public view). 1963 - Mohammed Daud forced to resign
as prime minister. 1964 - Constitutional monarchy introduced -
but leads to political polarisation and power struggles. 1973 -
Mohammed Daud seizes power in a coup and declares a republic.
Tries to play off USSR against Western powers.