Afghan rulers have historically included various leaders and regimes, reflecting the country's complex political landscape. Notable figures include Ahmad Shah Durrani, who founded the modern state of Afghanistan in the 18th century, and King Zahir Shah, who ruled from 1933 to 1973. The country has experienced numerous changes in leadership, often influenced by foreign powers and internal conflicts. In recent decades, the Taliban emerged as a significant force, first taking control in the 1990s and later regaining power in 2021. The governance of Afghanistan has been marked by challenges such as war, ethnic divisions, and struggles for power, impacting the lives of its citizens.