Part 3/11:
The roots of the Soviet intervention can be traced back as far as the 1730s, when Russia began its imperial ambitions in Central Asia, eventually setting its sights on Afghanistan by the mid-19th century. The rivalry between the Russian Empire and Great Britain over control of Afghanistan marked the beginning of the "Great Game," a contest for influence in Central Asia, particularly concerning the northern regions of British India.
Through a series of Anglo-Afghan wars, Britain sought to secure its interests against perceived Russian encroachment. It wasn't until the early 20th century that Afghanistan would gain independence, emerging from a complex web of international tensions and colonial ambitions.