Afghanistan's Long History of Conflict: Wars Over Two Millennia

Since the birth of Jesus Christ roughly 2,000 years ago, the region now known as Afghanistan has experienced dozens of wars, invasions, and military occupations. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Central and South Asia has made it a perennial target for empire-builders—from Alexander the Great and the Mauryas to the Mongols, British, Soviets, and the U.S.-led coalition.

While an exact count is impossible, historians note that Afghanistan's history is defined by near-continuous conflict, with each era adding layers to its complex tribal, ethnic, and geopolitical landscape.