1st Anglo-Afghan War Reference Books

Also known as Lady Sale: Captive in Afghanistan, is a book written by Florentia Sale during her captivity with Akbar Khan during the Retreat from Kabul in 1842. She was married to Maj Gen Robert Sale, who had earlier took a column of troops to Jalalabad and could not return to Kabul. This diary and written account is a wonderful first hand account of the famous and disastrous retreat. 

Return of a King by William Dalrymple tells the story of the British invasion of Afghanistan in 1839 and the disastrous attempt to restore Shah Shuja to the Afghan throne. It explores the political rivalries, cultural misunderstandings, and military mistakes that led to the catastrophic retreat of the British army from Kabul in 1842. The depth that Dalrymple goes into to is second to none. 

Tells the story of the First Anglo-Afghan War, focusing on the British invasion of Afghanistan, the Afghan uprising, and the catastrophic retreat of the British and Indian forces from Kabul in January 1842. 

Is a historical biography of Dost Mohammed Khan, the Afghan ruler who played a central role in the First Anglo-Afghan War. It describes his rise to power, his struggles to unite and govern Afghanistan, and his dealings with the British and other powers during the “Great Game.” Be aware if you buy on Amazon for example, there are two volumes that complete the book, normally separate purchases.  

Is a firsthand account of the British invasion of Afghanistan in 1839–1842, during the First Anglo-Afghan War. It describes the British military expedition through Sindh and Afghanistan, the occupation of Kabul, and the events leading to the disastrous British retreat from Kabul in 1842. The book is made up of a series of letters written by Thomas, back to his family in England during the conflict. 

Examines the causes and course of the First Anglo-Afghan War (1839–1842), including Britain’s decision to invade Afghanistan and restore Shah Shuja to the throne. It also covers the Afghan uprising and the disastrous British retreat from Kabul in 1842. The Osprey version is full of great maps and articles that bring the war to life in a clear and succent manner.