Afghan history is marked by its strategic location along the ancient trade routes, including the Silk Road. This area has seen the rise and fall of various empires, including the Persian Empire and the Macedonian Empire under Alexander the Great. The region has been influenced by diverse cultures and religions, including Buddhism and Islam. In the 20th century, Afghanistan experienced significant turmoil, including the Soviet invasion in 1979 and subsequent civil wars. The rise of the Taliban in the 1990s led to a strict interpretation of Islamic law. Following the events of September 11, 2001, international intervention aimed to stabilize the country, but challenges remain.