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After declaring Afghanistan independent in 1919, the new ruler, Amanullah Khan, embarked on an ambitious programme to bring universal education, gender equality and other far-reaching changes to his country. Amanullah’s ideas were applauded abroad but their reception at home was mixed. His attempt at political reforms culminated in the 1923 draft constitution but, as Benjamin Hopkins, Professor of History at George Washington University explains, strong domestic opposition blocked their implementation. Photo: Amanullah Khan with his ministers in a meeting. (ullstein bild via Getty Images)