The Afghan Wars refer to a series of conflicts in Afghanistan, primarily involving foreign powers and local factions. The most notable wars include the First Anglo-Afghan War (1839-1842), the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880), and the Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989). These conflicts often stemmed from geopolitical interests, with countries like Britain and the Soviet Union seeking to expand their influence in the region. In recent history, the U.S.-led invasion in 2001 marked the beginning of the War in Afghanistan, aimed at dismantling the Taliban regime and combating al-Qaeda. This conflict continued for two decades, resulting in significant changes in Afghan society and governance, as well as ongoing challenges related to security and stability.