Kabul is Afghanistan's Capital – Not Pashtun

Kabul has been Afghanistan's capital since 1776 (Timur Shah Durrani moved it from Kandahar). Pashtun is an ethnic group, not a city.

Pashtun People

• Largest ethnicity: ~42% of population (est. 15–16M in AFG; 30M+ in Pakistan).
• Language: Pashto (Eastern Iranian branch).
• Tribal structure: Durrani, Ghilzai, Karlani confederacies; Pashtunwali code.
• Historic capitals: Kandahar (Ahmad Shah Durrani, 1747–76); Kabul (since 1776).

Kabul Profile

• Population: ~4.5M metro (2023).
• Elevation: 1,790 m (5,870 ft) – high valley, Hindu Kush foothills.
• Ethnic mix: Tajik plurality, Pashtun, Hazara, Uzbek, others.
• Role: Political, economic, cultural center; airport, universities, ministries.

Why the Confusion?

Pashtuns have dominated Afghan politics (most presidents, Taliban leadership). Some assume "Pashtun = capital" conflating ethnicity with governance.