T Jaan and Ajmal Jaan , u 2 are both right. I do agree with both of u, but we also have to realise that he was just a symbol. Just like Queen Elizabeth.
Your also right about is ayaashi, I mean come lets not forget that he was a rich Muhamadzai teenager (19) when he received the throne. Just think, if you were a teenager in Kabul during that time and TITLED as KING of AFGHANISTAN. What would you do?
But overall , I have been told that he did introduced reforms, including modernisation of the political structure and economic system of the country, introduced the democratic legislature and ,education for women. Zahir Shah also brought in foreign advisers, founded the first modern university, and fostered cultural and commercial relations with Europe.
Lets also not forget that back in that time there were so many Tourists from all over the world began to view Afghanistan as an attractive destination, with its mountains, rich culture and the relics of many ancient civilisations.
But needlesss to say that probebly not just my parents , Iam sure ur parents may as well have pictures of when they were teenagers . Thier style way of life , Iam sure didnt look any diffrent than here. They have so many good /happy memories of their life back then .
Like I said in my ealier post. . Daoud Khan( his cousin) opposed his efforts to open up the country and develop contacts with the West. So Daud Khan took advantage of absence of Zahir Shah on a trip to Europe the time when a severe drought in 1971-1972 worsened economic conditions. He seized control of the government and ending two centuries of rule by the Durrani dynasty.
Very sad guys. . . . but dont get ur hopes up on this President of ours either . . In my opinion , they are all the same .
They come and go. Ba faayday mardum e baychaara leader nameshan, taa ki faayday khudishaan nabaashad 100%!
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Hm m m m . . . .