EP061 DON’T CARRY ON UP THE KHYBER

AGE OF VICTORIA PODCAST

INDIA SERIES 08

Happy 2025, and welcome back! In this episode, we conclude our deep dive into the 1st Anglo-Afghan War with one of the most infamous military disasters of the Victorian era—the catastrophic retreat from Kabul in 1842. As British forces, led by the indecisive General Elphinstone, attempted to escape through the freezing Khyber Pass, they faced relentless Afghan attacks, starvation, and total collapse.

Episode Highlights:
The disastrous leadership of General Elphinstone and Sir William MacNaughten.
The brutal winter retreat and the suffering of British troops and civilians.
The last stand at Gandamak—courage, chaos, and ultimate defeat.
The survival of Dr. William Brydon and the myths surrounding the retreat.
How this catastrophe shaped Victorian imperial policies and perceptions of Afghanistan.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership failure can turn a bad situation into a total catastrophe.
• The realities of empire-building were far bloodier and more chaotic than the myths suggest.
• The First Anglo-Afghan War left a lasting legacy, shaping British military thinking for years to come.

Next Episode Teaser:
Stay tuned as we explore the British response to this defeat—because when an empire stumbles, it rarely stays down for long.

Host’s Note:
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