• British forces invade and influence affairs in Afghanistan for several decades.

  • Afghanistan declares independence from British influence. 

  • The Soviet Army invades Afghanistan and establishes a communist government.

  • Fighting ensues between the Soviets and various opposition groups. In 1989, the last Soviet troops leave Afghanistan, but civil war continues. 

  • The United Nations imposes an air embargo and financial sanctions in an effort to force Afghanistan to hand over Osama Bin Laden for trial.

  • NATO assumes responsibility for security across all of Afghanistan.

  • Command of all military and security operations is returned to the Afghan army.

  • King Tupou dissolves parliament and dismisses the prime minister.

  • United States withdraws troops and the Taliban takes control over Kabul.

Sources:

BBC News open_in_new
Britannica open_in_new