Return of a King

SHORTLISTED FOR THE SAMUEL JOHNSON PRIZE 2013

'As taut and richly embroidered as a great novel . . . a masterpiece' Sunday Telegraph

'Dazzling' Sunday Times | 'Magnificent' Guardian | 'Sparkling' Daily Telegraph

A towering history of the first Afghan War by bestselling historian William Dalrymple.

In the spring of 1839, Britain commenced its first ambitious foray into Afghanistan. Nearly 20,000 British and East India Company troops ventured through the perilous high mountain passes, aiming to re-establish Shah Shuja ul-Mulk on the throne. This military invasion marked the beginning of the First Anglo-Afghan War, which was initially met with minimal resistance. However, the occupation sparked fierce discontent among the Afghan populace, leading to a widespread rebellion following a call for jihad. The uprising culminated in a catastrophic retreat for British forces, marking a profoundly humiliating defeat for what was then the most powerful nation on Earth. An entire army was ambushed and annihilated by Afghan tribesmen, who despite being poorly equipped, displayed formidable resistance.

William Dalrymple’s Return of a King provides a gripping narrative of this historical episode. Drawing extensively from forgotten Afghan and Indian sources, Dalrymple reconstructs the intricate tapestry of events and personalities involved in the conflict. His scholarly yet accessible retelling offers a vivid exploration of colonial ambition, cultural collision, folly, and hubris. The book stands as a poignant parable on the perils of imperialism and the enduring complexities of Afghanistan’s history.

Return of a King transcends traditional historical accounts, weaving a compelling story that resonates with contemporary geopolitical themes. It presents a detailed and nuanced picture of the political machinations, personal rivalries, and profound misunderstandings that characterised the tumultuous period. The narrative is enriched by Dalrymple’s detailed portrayal of the key figures, including Shah Shuja, whose tragic fate underscores the human cost of imperial ambition. The book is a testament to Dalrymple's skill as a historian and storyteller, blending meticulous research with a captivating prose style to deliver an urgent and significant work of history.