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internal conflict within Afghanistan erupts between the anticommunist Muslim guerrillas and the Afghan communist government.
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100,000 Soviet troops invade Afghanistan with the backing of over 100,000 Afghan military men.
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Beginning on May 15th 1988 and ending on February 15th 1989, the Soviet troops withdraw from Afghanistan. The Soviets were defeated by the Mujahideen forces. It is estimated that between 600,000 and 2 million Afghan civilians were killed during this occupation and 6 million fled Afghanistan to neighbouring countries.
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The mujahideen forces continue to fight in Afghanistan against Najibullah, the President of the Republic of Afghanistan. Najibullah was supported by the Soviets following their withdrawal until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
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Various mujahideen forces form an alliance and successfully overthrow the Najibullah Regime. These forces agree to share the political power of the country, creating the Islamic State of Afghanistan.
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The Taliban develops in opposition to a local governor. Formed with only 50 students from Kandahar, the Taliban began to protect the locals against the abuses of the governor.
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The Taliban invades Kabul and establishes the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The Taliban begin massive human rights violations and imposes radical Islam. The Taliban impose extremely restrictive laws on girls and women. Schools for girls are shut down, women were no longer allowed to hold jobs, and strict dress codes are enforced. Women are now expected to wear burqa.
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The Taliban attacks the United States by sending airplanes into the Twin Towers in New York City and the Pentagon. The United States declare war against the Taliban. The US, UK, and Canada begin to launch attacks against the Taliban.
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The Taliban is driven from Kabul by NATO forces; they withdraw to the mountains to regroup.
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Afghanis vote in the first parliamentary elections in 30 years. Women are allowed to vote in the elections.
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Taliban continue to launch attacks against their fellow Afghan citizens and against U.S. and U.K. forces. Rights have returned to women, they no longer are required to wear burqa and can attend work. Oppression against women still remains prevalent in rural areas.
