Retreat and Retribution in Afghanistan, 1842: Two Journals of the First Afghan War

The book "The Last British Campaign in Afghanistan 1841-42" by Margaret Kekewich provides a fascinating insight into the British defeat in Afghanistan 150 years ago, based on the graphic diaries written by two British eyewitnesses. It highlights the mistakes that led to the war and defeat and the suffering inflicted on innocent Afghans.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The devastating loss of their army in Afghanistan during the winter of 1841/2 had a profound impact on British pride and confidence, comparable to the devastating events of 11 September 2001. The British, driven by the misguided notion that a weak monarch could deter the Russians, had replaced a popular and effective ruler with one perceived as less capable. Two years later, in a tragic turn of events, nearly all the British and Indian soldiers stationed in the region were massacred in a widespread uprising. In her insightful new study of this conflict, Margaret Kekewich delves into the details of the British defeat, their subsequent re-occupation of Afghanistan in the spring of 1842, and their eventual withdrawal at the end of the year. Drawing upon the graphic diaries written by two British eyewitnesses, Lady Sale and Reverend Allen, Kekewich provides a captivating glimpse into the events of 150 years ago. Lady Sale, along with over 100 women, children, and soldiers, was captured and imprisoned by the Afghans. Reverend Allen, a young chaplain who had joined the army in April 1842 to avenge British humiliation and rescue the prisoners, offers a contrasting perspective. Both eyewitnesses lamented the foolish decisions that led to war and defeat, as well as the immense suffering inflicted upon the innocent Afghans. At a time when British forces are once again deeply engaged in the war-torn country of Afghanistan, Kekewich's balanced and thought-provoking analysis offers a fresh perspective on a past conflict in the region.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399019903