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istan and remained neutral during World War I. His reign ended with his assassination near Jalalabad (February, 1919) and the coming to power of his son Amanullah. During Amir Amanullah's reign, Afghanistan's last and successful claim was made for complete independence from foreign rule. The people's demand for freedom resulted in the War of Independence known also as the Third Anglo-Afghan War. The victory at Thal of General Mohammed Nadir (the late Nadir Shah) expedited the recognition by the British of complete Afghan independence and the establishment by Amir Amanullah of diplomatic relations with the outside world. Russia recognised the independent government of Afghanistan and soon other countries such as Turkey, Persia, France, Germany, Italy and several others followed suit. This achieved, the Amir embarked upon reforms aimed at preparing Afghanistan to play her part in international affairs. The result was that he was invited to visit several European countries from which he came back with a determination that "westernisation" should be introduced into Afghanistan almost overnight. His attempt brought some opposition from a section of the population, but the ensuing revolt against him was really hastened by the intrigues of foreign elements rather than a lack of desire on the part of the nation to see Afghanistan develop along modern lines. Amir Amanullah abdicated in 1929 and a ruthless brigand called Habibullah Bacha-i-Saqa came to power for nine months, every day of which meant the loss of a great many lives in Afghanistan. At the time, General Mohammed Nadir, former Afghan Minister in France, who earlier was promoted to the rank of Marshal of the Army and Minister of War, was a sick man in Paris. When he heard of Bacha-i-Saqa's depredations, he immediately set out for Afghanistan. The condition of his health on departure from France was such that a stretcher had to be used to bring him on to the steamer. Once inside Afghanistan, the people rallied around him and helped him to deliver them from the tyranny of the bandit ruler. So great was the impact of his selfless service to the nation, and so ably had he brought about the people's deliverance that on October 16th, 1929, the notables of the country proclaimed him their King at Kabul. King Mohammed Nadir Shah was a direct descendant of Sultan Mohammed Khan, a brother of Amir Dost Mohammed Khan. His first job was to consolidate the country and embark upon progressive measures. One of his most important deeds was the drawing-up of a new Constitution for Afghanistan, which he accomplished with the help of an elected Parliament. Unfortunately in November, 1933, only four years after coming to power, he was assassinated. He was succeeded by his only son, His Majesty Mohammed Zahir Shah, the present King of Afghanistan. The beautiful Sherpur Mosque. 67