EP058 ONCE MORE UNTO THE BREACH DEAR FRIENDS
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This episode focuses on the continuation of the British invasion of Afghanistan in 1839. Here are the key things I cover:
- British capture Kandahar: The poorly prepared British army, led by Generals Keane and Cotton, struggles through deserts and mountains but manages to capture Kandahar with little resistance. Shah Shuja is reinstated as king, but the locals are not enthusiastic.
- Difficulties and discontent: The British underestimate the logistical challenges and the hostility of the Afghan people. Food shortages, inflation, and a lack of military intelligence create problems for the British.
- Siege of Ghazni: The heavily fortified city of Ghazni stands in the way of the British advance. Despite lacking siege equipment, the British launch a desperate night attack led by Lieutenant Durand and his engineers. After a fierce battle, the British capture the city following a bloody urban warfare.
- British brutality: The capture of Ghazni is marred by a brutal rampage by British and Sepoy troops who loot the city and commit rape and murder.
- Fall of Dost Mohammed: The fall of Ghazni and illness of his son force Afghan king Dost Mohammed to flee Kabul and negotiate with the British. He proposes a power-sharing deal that is rejected by the British.
- Arrival of Shah Shuja: Shah Shuja returns to Kabul as king, but has no real support from the Afghan people. The British establish a military presence in the city.
- British incompetence: The episode concludes by highlighting the poor leadership and outdated tactics of the British army.
- Next episode: The upcoming episode will delve into the disastrous failures of the British occupation and their eventual retreat from Afghanistan.