To improve the conditions of people of Pakhtunkhwa, it is important to learn from history for the following reasons:
- History tells us why we are in the current horrible condition. There is a always a reason/background. Decision of past generations impact us.
- History is not limited to local history. Regional and international histories affect us.
- History teaches us about our mistakes.
- Knowing history allows us to make good decisions / choices improve the present and future.
Below are some of the major periods of history that we need to cover:
- War on Terror, time period from 2001 to 2022
- Soviet Invasion, 1979 to 2001
- Pakistan’s Independence till Soviet Invasion, 1947 to 1979
- British Raj Occupation, 1857 to 1947
- Three Anglo-Afghan Wars: 1832, 1878, 1919
- Sikh Occupation, 1832 to 1857
- Ahmed Shah Abdali Dynasty, 1747 to 1832
- Mughal Era, 1526 to 1747
- Delhi Sultanate; Pashtoon Kings, 1193 to 1526
- Conversion to Islam, 630 to 1193
- Pre-Islamic time period, 3300 BC to 630 AD
Each of these eras are huge time periods and requires a deep dive. It is my goal to look at each of these in order to learn from and hopefully come up with some lessons that we can use for a better future. The hope must stay alive! Things will change!