ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is to give an account of the considerations that led Amir Abd al-Rahman Khan (1880-1901) to encourage Pashtun migration to northern Afghanistan, the difficulties met in the execution of this policy, and the reasons for its final success. As a case study, this account illustrates a type of policy frequently employed by Afghan and Iranian rulers towards their tribal populations; it also throws light on some of the domestic problems that faced the Iron Amir and demonstrates a new aspect of his role in the ‘Great Game’ between Russia and Britain. 1
