Afghanistan: The Great Game

"Afghanistan: The Great Game" is a compelling documentary series released by BBC Two in 2012. Hosted by the Scottish actor and historian Rory Stewart, this powerful series aims to investigate, unravel, and present the complex history of Afghanistan and its significance over the past two centuries to contemporary audiences.

In this two-part series, Stewart delves into what Rudyard Kipling famously called "The Great Game" - the strategic rivalry and conflict between the British Empire and Tsarist Russia for supremacy in Central Asia that occurred throughout the 19th century. At the heart of this competition was Afghanistan, a strategically important yet deeply divided country, that became the chessboard on which this Great Game was played. Stewart deftly and engagingly navigates the audience through the convoluted politics, the intrigue, the betrayals, and the bloodshed that this rivalry resulted in.

The first episode starts from the genesis of this hostility, in the early 19th century, when Great Britain feared that Russia might attempt to invade India, the jewel in the crown of the British Empire. Afghanistan, being located between Russia and India, and with its challenging mountainous terrain, became a natural buffer state. The British sought to control the Afghan leadership to ward off any potential Russian invasion. This led to the trigging of the 1st Anglo-Afghan war (1839-42), marking the commencement of foreign invasions and occupations that the country has had to endure.

The second episode moves on towards the later stages of the Great Game and the subsequent fallout. It pivots towards the 20th century where Stewart looks into the second and the third Anglo-Afghan wars, international diplomacy's role during the period, and the withdrawal of the British Empire from the region, leading to the birth of modern Afghanistan. Stewart also discusses the Soviet invasion in 1979 and its grave implications, drawing parallels between past and present.

What makes "Afghanistan: The Great Game" compelling is not only its in-depth examination of historical events but also the way it connects these with the modern realities of the country and the West's involvement. It not only delves deeply into Afghanistan's geopolitical significance but also explores the real-life impact on the Afghan people. Stewart, who is not just a historian but who also brings first-hand experiences as a former diplomat and influential advocate for foreign intervention in Afghanistan, offers insightful and balanced perspectives on this period of tumultuous history.

The documentary stands out because it avoids the trap of merely focusing on the high-stakes diplomatic and military machinations of the Great Powers. Instead, the series successfully presents a rich tapestry that includes the cultural, historical, and social dimensions of Afghanistan - beautifully showcasing this often misunderstood, misrepresented, and war-torn country's spirit, resilience, and strength.

The cinematography is stunning – capturing the wild, beautiful, and often unforgiving Afghan landscapes that have long enchanted and confounded foreign invaders. The series also uses archival footage, historical re-enactments, and interviews with a host of individuals – from historians and former diplomats to local Afghan citizens and tribal leaders – all contributing to a rich, immersive, and educative viewing experience.

"Afghanistan: The Great Game" also prompts viewers to ponder on the lessons from history and how they echo in today’s challenges in the region. As Afghanistan continues to grapple with conflicts, interventions, and attempts at nation-building, this insightful series encourages its audience to engage more profoundly with this relevant and critical narrative.

In essence, "Afghanistan: The Great Game" transcends being just another historical documentary. It is a portrait of a nation that has been at the crossroads of conflict and ambition of world powers, a history lesson with chilling parallels to contemporary geopolitics, and an exploration of Afghanistan's and its people's indefatigable spirit. This BBC series is an important watch for both history lovers and those interested in understanding the roots of current global political scenarios.