Soviet-Afghan War

Definition

The Soviet-Afghan War was a conflict that took place from 1979 to 1989. It began when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan to support its communist government against anti-communist guerilla fighters, known as the Mujahideen.

Analogy

Think of the Soviet-Afghan War like a high-stakes game of chess where Afghanistan is the board. The Soviets (one player) are trying to control the board by supporting their own pieces (the Afghan communist government), while other players (like the U.S.) are supporting opposing pieces (the Mujahideen).

Related terms

Cold War: A period of geopolitical tension between two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, following World War II until 1991. This war was characterized by political and economic clashes rather than direct military conflict.

Mujahideen: Islamic guerrilla fighters especially in Middle East countries who engage in jihad or holy war. In context of Soviet-Afghan war, they were supported by several countries including USA against USSR.

Proxy War: A conflict instigated by major powers that do not themselves become involved in combat; instead, they use third parties to fight on their behalf.