Parwan Campaign (1840)

In 1839, the British invaded Afghanistan to restore Shah Shuja Durrani, a former ruler of Durrani descent. The British wished to restore Shah Shuja to the throne as a puppet and to counter-act growing Russian influence in the region. The British successfully invaded and forced Dost Mohammad Khan to flee from Kabul, which prompted in him leading to a growing insurgency with the Mir Wali of Khulm in northern Afghanistan.^[7][8]

Khan found allies elsewhere, where he allied with the leaders of the Kohistan rebellion that had tried to depose him prior. They realized their mistake of opposition toward Dost Mohammad, and now called for his restoration, seeking to support him. They had disagreed with previous actions by the Shah Shuja.^[9]

The rebels believed that they did not owe allegiance to Dost Mohammad. Instead, the Sadozais were their allies.^[10] And now, having heard of Sale's attack on Jalgah, Mir Masjidi accused Ghulam Khan and the British of perfidy, fully defecting to Dost Mohammad's side alongside a group of pirs.^[10]

The British were defeated in 13 different battles and unable to halt the Afghan resistance.^[5]

On 2 November 1840, Dost Mohammad engaged battle at Parwan Darra with Sale.^[11] Dost Mohammad held a strong defensive position with over 400 cavalrymen.^[5] Dr. Lord, died amongst this fighting that broke out.^[6]