Afghanistan Flashcards
When did Afghanistan become communist?
Afghanistan because communist, under the leadership of Muhammad Taraki, in April 1978 when the PDPA, a communist party overthrew the Afghan government.
Why did many Afghan people disliked communism?
As the new communist government made many changes to marriage and land reform which were misunderstood by virtually all Afghans. In addition, thousands of members of the traditional elite (The Muslim religious establishment and intellectuals) were imprisoned, tortured or murdered.
Who were the Mujahedeen?
Thousands of Afghan Muslims joined the Mujahedeen - a guerrilla movement which proclaimed to be on a holy mission for Allah. They wanted to overthrow the Amin government and they declared a jihad (holy war) against Amin and his supporters.
Why was a jihad declared against Amin and his supporters?
As In September 1979, Amin, the Deputy Prime Minister, seized power from Taraki, but there was continued instability in the country because of anti-Muslim policies.
How did the Soviet Union get involved in Afghanistan?
Amin because dependant on soviet military equipment and advisers. Brezhnev was concerned about the growing popularity and power of Islamic fundamentalism.
Why did Brezhnev fear Islamic fundamentalism?
Brezhnev was concerned about the growing popularity and power of Islamic fundamentalism, as it might over come Afghanistan and make it a non communist country.
When did the Soviet Union invade Afghanistan?
Between 25th December 1979 and 1st January 1980, more than 50 000 Soviet troops were sent to Afghanistan to restore order and protect the PDPA from the Mujahedeeen.
Why did many Afghan people join the Mujahideen?
As on 27th December 1979, Amin was shot and replaced by Babrak Kamal, who had been in exile in Moscow. His position as head of beth Afghan government was entirely dependant on Soviet military support. Many Afghan soldier deserted to join the Mujahedeen and the Kamal government then required 85 00 Soviet solider to keep it in power.
What was the Carter Doctrine?
When President Carter wanted to take a firm approach with the Soviet Union over the invasion. With this he made a speech in January 1980 which became known as the Carter Doctrine which was a policy that stated that the USA would use military force if necessary to defend its national interests in the Persian Gulf region. The Carter Doctrine also promised American military aid to all countries bordering Afghanistan.
How did the USA show opposition to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan?
When President Carter proposed that a Rapid Deployment Force be created. He also called for a draft registration of 18-20 year old men and for Congress to allow the CIA to increase its intelligence gathering activities.
How did the invasion of Afghanistan end detente?
Detente was completely ended when President Carter asked the Senate to delay passing the SALT II Treaty. America also cancelled all shipments of grain to the Soviet Union and US companies were forbidden to sell high technology there.
