Description

Abdur Rahman Khan (c. 1840 – 1901), known as The Iron Amir, ruled Afghanistan from 1880 until his death in 1901. He unified the country after years of internal conflict and negotiated the Durand Line Agreement with British India. As the son of Mohammad Afzal Khan and grandson of Dost Mohammad Khan, founder of the Barakzai dynasty, Abdur Rahman Khan reasserted Afghan government control following the second Anglo-Afghan war. His reign was marked by military despotism, a strong army, and extensive espionage. Known for quelling over 40 rebellions, his rule was described as a "reign of terror" with up to 100,000 judicial executions, mass starvations, and forced migrations. Despite his harsh methods, he is considered one of Afghanistan's greatest military leaders.