Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan Quiz

Explanation
On December 24, 1979, the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. This event marked the beginning of the Soviet-Afghan War, which lasted for almost a decade. The invasion was a response to the political instability in Afghanistan and the growing influence of Islamic fundamentalist groups. The Soviet Union aimed to support the Afghan communist government and maintain control over the country. However, the invasion sparked widespread resistance from Afghan rebel groups, leading to a prolonged and costly conflict.

Explanation
The Mujahideens were backed by the United States. This support was part of the US strategy to counter the Soviet Union's influence during the Cold War. The US provided financial aid, weapons, and training to the Mujahideens in their fight against the Soviet-backed government in Afghanistan. This assistance played a significant role in the eventual withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan.

Explanation
Babrak Karmal was installed as a leader in Afghanistan following the Soviet invasion in 1979. He was chosen by the Soviet Union to replace the previous leader, Nur Muhammad Taraki, who was overthrown and executed. Karmal served as the General Secretary of the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan and was seen as a puppet leader, heavily influenced and supported by the Soviet Union. His installation was part of the Soviet Union's attempt to maintain control over Afghanistan and suppress the resistance movements that had formed against their occupation.

Explanation
Jimmy Carter was the president of the United States when the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. This occurred in 1979, during Carter's presidency. Carter responded to the invasion by implementing economic sanctions and boycotting the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. He also provided support to Afghan rebels fighting against the Soviet forces. Carter's presidency was marked by strained relations with the Soviet Union, and the invasion of Afghanistan further escalated tensions between the two nations.

Explanation
The correct answer is Leonid Brezhnev because he was the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1964 until his death in 1982. He was in power during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, which began in 1979. Brezhnev played a key role in the decision-making process and gave the order for the invasion to take place. His leadership and influence were instrumental in shaping Soviet foreign policy during this time.

Explanation
The invasion of Afghanistan was indeed one of the reasons for the downfall of the U.S.S.R. In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in an attempt to prop up a communist government. However, the invasion turned into a costly and protracted war for the Soviets. The Afghan resistance, known as the mujahideen, received support from various countries, including the United States. The war drained the Soviet economy and military resources, leading to increased discontent among the Soviet population. Ultimately, the Soviet Union withdrew from Afghanistan in 1989, and the war contributed to internal divisions and economic challenges that played a significant role in the collapse of the U.S.S.R.

Explanation
Mikhail Gorbachev came to power in the Soviet Union in 1985. This marked a significant turning point in Soviet politics as Gorbachev introduced a series of reforms known as "glasnost" and "perestroika" which aimed to modernize the Soviet Union and increase political openness. Gorbachev's leadership ultimately led to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Explanation
The correct answer is February 15, 1989. This date marks the final withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan.

Explanation
In September 1996, the Taliban gained control over the capital Kabul. This marked a significant turning point in the history of Afghanistan, as the Taliban's rise to power led to a period of strict Islamic rule and oppressive policies. The capture of Kabul allowed the Taliban to establish their authority over the country and impose their extremist ideology on the Afghan people.

Explanation
Afghanistan is often referred to as the "Graveyard of Empires" because throughout history, many empires and superpowers have attempted to conquer and control the region, but have ultimately failed. This is due to a combination of factors such as the rugged and mountainous terrain, the fierce resistance of Afghan tribes, the country's complex tribal and ethnic dynamics, and the ability of local forces to adapt and wage effective guerrilla warfare. These factors have made it extremely challenging for foreign powers to establish long-term control over Afghanistan, leading to the nickname "Graveyard of Empires."