The Treaty of Gandamak is associated with the Second Anglo-Afghan war. Here is a detailed explanation of this historical event:
- Background:
The Second Anglo-Afghan war took place in 1878-1880. It was a conflict between the British Empire and Afghanistan, triggered by the British desire to prevent Russian influence in the region and secure a buffer state between British India and Russian territories.
- Events leading to the Treaty of Gandamak:
The British launched a military campaign into Afghanistan in 1878, with the aim of replacing the ruler Sher Ali Khan with a more pro-British leader. After several battles and sieges, the British forces captured Kabul in 1879. Sher Ali Khan fled to Turkestan, where he died soon after.
- Treaty of Gandamak:
Following the capture of Kabul, the British signed the Treaty of Gandamak with the new Afghan leader, Yaqub Khan, in May 1879. The treaty aimed to establish a more favorable British influence in Afghanistan and secure British control over Afghan foreign affairs.
- Provisions of the Treaty:
The Treaty of Gandamak required Afghanistan to cede control of its foreign affairs to the British Empire. It also established British residency in Kabul and required Afghanistan to accept British subsidies and military assistance.
- Outcome:
The Treaty of Gandamak was not well-received by the Afghan people, leading to widespread resistance against British rule. The British faced continued opposition and unrest in Afghanistan, eventually leading to the end of the Second Anglo-Afghan war in 1880.
In conclusion, the Treaty of Gandamak was a significant event in the history of Anglo-Afghan relations, marking a key moment in British efforts to exert influence in Afghanistan during the 19th century.