British Imperialism In Afghanistan,1839-2001

Résumé: Britain's foreign policy has been imperialistic and expansionist since its early formation; this can mainly be seen in its Great empire and its outcome, the Commonwealth of Nations. In the 19th century, Britain emerged as a colonial leading power with various holds in the world. Its expansionism emerged in the period of the " Great Game" which it played with the other power, Russia. In this game, both tried to expand their empires toward the region of Central Asia. In this context, Afghanistan was seen as the perfect opportunity to their expansionist dreams. To fulfill its motivations, Britain fought brutal wars in Afghanistan. In three wars fought between 1839 and 1919, the British used all means to subjugate the country but at the end they failed to maintain a presence in the region. In the opening of the 21st century, Britain's old motivations were still standing. They became a reality in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks when, in alliance with the USA, it launched a war against Afghanistan in 2001. The invasion oft Afghanistan was justified on the ground of the right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter. Using 9/11 attacks and the right of self-defense as an excuse to launch a war against Afghanistan seems the perfect cover for fulfilling UK-US imperialistic objectives, mainly controlling and exploiting this strategic area of Central Asia, mainly rich in oil and other natural resources.

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