The present study deals essentially with the inherent centripetal and centrifugal forces operating within the geographical environment of land-locked Afghanistan. It keeps in view the strategic implications of its location, while it attempts at identifying geographical and historical conditions that have influenced and interacted with the evolution of the state. The study also takes cognisance of the primary character of the state tribalism. It further analyses how far this element has influenced the development of the state, politically and economically. In the process, the role (and influence if any) of the geographical factors becomes apparent and as the analysis indicates, provides an explanation and a background for the events that have taken the course they have in Afghanistan today. Apart from a study of material at the National Archives at New Delhi and at the various libraries, Dr Gopalakrishnan was also able to visit Kabul on a field trip and incorporate valuable data which adds to the authenticity of his work. A welcome addition to the meagre literature available in this important area of political geography.
