Dost Mohammad Khan

Dost Mohammad Khan (1793–1863) was the founder and leader of the Barakzai dynasty in Afghanistan. He played a significant role in unifying the country and establishing Kabul as the capital. After gaining control during a turbulent period marked by foreign invasions and internal strife, he sought to modernize Afghanistan, strengthen its central authority, and navigate complex relationships with British India and neighboring powers. His reign was marked by efforts to maintain independence while dealing with external pressures, particularly in the context of the "Great Game" between Britain and Russia. Dost Mohammad remains a key figure in Afghan history.