August in Kabul: America's Last Days in Afghanistan
A unique perspective from one of the few Western journalists who chose to remain in Kabul as the city fell.
August in Kabul: America's Last Days in Afghanistan Book cover
The United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan marks a pivotal moment in modern history, with far-reaching implications for both regional dynamics and global security. After nearly two decades of military involvement, the decision to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan raised critical questions about the future of the country, the stability of the region, and the legacy of American intervention.
The withdrawal process, which began in earnest in May 2021 and culminated in the complete evacuation of U.S. forces by August of the same year, unfolded against a backdrop of political, security, and humanitarian challenges. The decision to end America’s longest war was driven by a range of factors, including shifting domestic priorities, war fatigue among the American public, and a reevaluation of strategic objectives in an evolving geopolitical landscape.
The consequences of this withdrawal, however, extend far beyond the withdrawal itself. As the Taliban rapidly regained control of large swaths of territory, including the capital city of Kabul, the chaotic scenes of desperate Afghans seeking to flee and the subsequent collapse of the Afghan government reverberated across the globe. The vacuum left in the wake of the withdrawal has raised concerns about the potential for a resurgence of terrorism, the erosion of hard-fought gains in human rights and women’s rights, and the regional power dynamics as neighboring countries seek to assert influence in the aftermath of the U.S. departure.
In August in Kabul, Andrew Quilty, a Walkley award-winning journalist, presents a gripping account of the historic fall of Kabul. Through the eyes of witnesses on the ground, Quilty unveils the dramatic events that unfolded as the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital, marking the abrupt and humiliating end of America’s longest mission.
On August 15, 2021, the Taliban swept into Kabul after two decades of conflict with the United States, its Western allies, and a fragile Afghan government. For the United States this was yet another foreign disaster, one that shattered the illusions of progress and stability built over years of engagement.
Against this backdrop, Quilty’s debut book captures the raw emotions and harrowing experiences of Afghans whose lives were upended by the events unfolding before them. Through intimate portraits, he introduces us to a young woman whose dreams of a university education are overshadowed by the chaos engulfing the nation. We witness the desperate struggles of a presidential staffer, fighting to maintain some semblance of order as the government collapses around him. And we encounter a prisoner in the infamous Bagram Prison, suddenly finding freedom when the guards abandon their posts.
What sets August in Kabul apart is Quilty’s unique perspective as one of the few Western journalists who chose to remain in Kabul as the city fell. With unparalleled access and a compassionate lens, he delivers a firsthand account of the final days of chaos and uncertainty. Through his vivid storytelling, Quilty exposes the multifaceted impact of the conflict on individuals, families, and communities, painting a vivid picture of the human cost of war and its aftermath.
Quilty’s narrative is powerful and illuminating, weaving together the personal stories of resilience, fear, and hope that unfolded amidst the chaos. He skillfully highlights the complexities of the situation, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the larger geopolitical forces at play and the far-reaching consequences of foreign intervention in Afghanistan in chronological order.
August in Kabul captures the resilience and spirit of the Afghan people, who have endured decades of conflict and upheaval. It also serves as a stark reminder of the limitations and failures of foreign intervention. It is a vital contribution to the historical record, offering readers a remarkable and deeply human perspective on a pivotal moment in recent history. With meticulous research, powerful storytelling, Quilty crafts a narrative that will leave a lasting impact on readers, urging them to reflect on the complexities of war, its aftermath. August in Kabul is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the Afghan conflict and the profound impact it has had on individuals and nations alike.
Andrew Quilty, August in Kabul: America’s Last Days in Afghanistan (Bloomsbury Academic, 2023) ISBN: 9781350370319, 272 pages
Written by Dilara Özer
