Geography: The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

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Afghanistan is a country that is mysterious to many outsiders. From the harsh landscape to the traditional social norms shared by its people, Afghanistan continues to mystify the world. The country’s unique location has influenced its history and people, and that of the nations and armies that have tried to conquer it. Like all nations, Afghanistan’s geography, infrastructure, history and people contribute to the overall culture of the country.
The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is located in southern Asia. It is a landlocked country. The nations that boarder Afghanistan are Pakistan to the East and South, Iran to the West, and Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to the North. The country also shares a minor board with China, which measures only 76 kilometers long. It is the 41st largest country in the world, covering approximately 652,000 square kilometers. The geography varies widely within its borders. The lowest elevation is 258 meters above sea level while its tallest peak reaches 7,485 meters. The majority of the terrain is rugged mountains with a semi-arid to arid climate, with pockets of arable lowlands that comprise approximately twelve percent of the country’s landmass (cia.gov). The most significant mountain range is the Hindu Kush in the north east of the country. Temperatures vary widely between seasons and altitudes. In the Capital city of Kabul temperatures can fall well below zero Fahrenheit in the winter and average 90o F in the hottest months. Areas at lower elevations maintain an average over 100o F in the summer (“Afghanistan Profile” 6). Historically, the harsh winters and summers dictate the peak fighting seasons of spring and fall.
Agriculture is an important aspect in the lives of Afghan ci...

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Works Cited

Afghanistan: Communications. Petaluma: World Trade Press, 2010. E-book.
“Afghanistan Profile.” Asia and Pacific Review. (2006). Print.
Afghanistan: Society and Culture. Petaluma: World Trade Press, 2010. E-book.
“History of Afghanistan.” Nations Online. One World, n.d. Web. 23 March 2014.
Redaelli, Silvia, et al. Research Study on IDPs in Urban Settings – Afghanistan. Kabul: The World Bank, 2011. Web.
Rasanayagam, Angelo. Afghanistan: A Modern History. London: I.B. Taurus & Company, 2003. E-book.
Sieff, Kevin. “After Billions in U.S. Investment, Afghan Roads are Falling Apart.” Washington Post 30 January 2014. Web.
Tanner, Stephen. Afghanistan: a Military History from Alexander the Great to the War Against the Taliban. Cambridge: Da Capo Press, 2009. E-book.
“World Fact Book.” CIA.gov. n.p., 11 March 2014. Web. 23 March 2014.

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