The new updated edition of this ground-breaking work by Amin Saikal is published by I.B. Tauris (London: June 2012).

The book has received international acclaim:

Chosen by The Wall Street Journal as One of ‘Five Best’ Books on Afghanistan

‘An original contribution to the field.’ Robert D. McChesney, New York University

‘Successfully sustains a new approach to Afghan history... excellent and lucid: a much-needed account.’ Peter Avery, King’s College, University of Cambridge

‘Saikal’s contribution to our understanding and analysis of modern Afghanistan post 9/11 is a very important one.’ International Affairs

‘Fascinating... this is an excellent primer.' The Sydney Morning Herald

‘authoritative’ The Middle East Magazine