The recent withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan led many commentators to invoke an oft-used phrase about the country as “The Graveyard of Empires.” While not historically accurate, it does call attention to the difficulty foreign powers have had in trying to invade and rule the country.

This lecture will survey Afghan history with respect to its relations with various invaders from Alexander the Great to the British, Russians, and Americans and explore some of the reasons most were ultimately unsuccessful in establishing firm control. Paul Hanson, Ph.D., is Emeritus Professor of History at California Lutheran University. He received his Ph.D. in South Asian and Middle Eastern History from the University of Chicago. Twice a Fulbright Scholar in India, his research has focused on the relationship of religion and political legitimacy in Islamic empires. Other national fellowships and awards have funded further studies in London, Sri Lanka, and Jordan. Winner of the President's Award for Teaching Excellence, his classes made use of many of his own photographs taken during his travels in over 50 countries. He was a founding board member of the South Asian Studies Association and a member of many other professional associations. Fifty and Better was designed to offer university-level courses (no tests, no homework) taught by experts in the field, and to host social engagement activities for individuals age 50 and older. All are welcome to this one-time lecture. There are additional requirements for attending in person.