ATSS Context

1950s-60s Mariam’s life set against a backdrop of PM Daoud Khan. Step sisters do well in Herat and M lives in Kulba. Divide between Urban and country life

1950s-60s Prime Minister Daoud Khan Social reform, education, accepted US and USSR aid, women at uni and work. Mostly happened in Urban

1979 Political instability has impact on Laila’s life. Dad is fired from being high school teacher, brothers fight for Mujhadideen and die.

1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. USSR invades Afghanistan, triggering years of war and instability. Soviets controlled education to set agenda and Mujahideen

Early 1990s Laila celebrates soviet departure but Mujahideen turn on eachother, cycle of violence has increasing impact on character lives. Parents die by rocket, forcing Laila to rely on Rasheed

Early 90s soviet withdrawel Mujahideen turn on eachother and destroy Kabul, normal life becomes impossible with violence affecting citizens

1996 Taliban takeover Laila and Mariam’s lives become intertwined by shared suffering. Both lose opportunities and freedom but Laila still benefits from her education and children to try to break away from fate.

1996 Taliban takeover seized Kabul and impose strict laws, especially against women. Conservative and rural become law.

Life remaining difficult and Mariam’s life lost, new beginnings for Laila and her family are explored

2001 US invasion and fall of Taliban Despite Post 9/11 US inasion leads to Taliban collapse and beginning of reconstruction