Battles & Campaigns · 1919
Treaty of Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
What happened
British India, led by Sir Hamilton Grant, and the Emirate of Afghanistan under Amanullah Khan made peace. In May 1919 Afghan troops under Emir Amanullah Khan crossed into British India, starting the Third Anglo-Afghan War. After a month of fighting, an armistice was agreed. In Rawalpindi the two sides signed a peace treaty, and Britain stopped its payments to Afghanistan.
Why it matters
Why it matters: Afghanistan regained control of its own foreign affairs. The Durand Line was confirmed as the border with British India.
What came next
Afghan independence was formally recognised by treaty in 1922. Historians disagree on who 'won' the war.
Did you know?
The talks nearly broke down several times over Afghan demands for land and money.
Timeline
- 3 May 1919Afghan troops cross the border.
- 3 June 1919An armistice takes effect.
- 8 August 1919The Treaty of Rawalpindi is signed.
- 1922Afghan independence is formally recognised by treaty.