The American Project in Afghanistan: What Went Wrong?
[Note from OLLI: We are at capacity for in-person attendance. Interested in joining online only? Please sign up!]
This course looks at the American attempt to transform Afghanistan into a Western-style capitalist democracy. It starts with context: a social portrait of Afghans on the eve of the war. Then comes the story of the American military driving the Taliban from power, a story that continues through elections, money, corruption, accelerating social changes until it comes to climax with the American withdrawal, the mass evacuation of Afghans who worked with them, and the Taliban back in power. How could this happen? That's the question we'll tackle.
Faculty Bio
Tamim Ansary is an Afghan American author who grew up in Afghanistan and grew old in America. His books include the memoir West of Kabul, East of New York, and Games Without Rules, a history of Afghanistan from the inside looking out.
This is an In-Person, Livestreamed + Recorded Course
- Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 365, at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
- Classes will also stream live simultaneously, and be video recorded
- Fee assistance is available if cost is a barrier. Learn more.
Schedule Highlights
- Course starts on Thursday, Sept. 21 and ends on Thursday, Oct. 26
- Classes meet for six weeks, two hours per session (10–noon)
- Videos will post on Fridays in Member Dashboards
- All course materials, including videos, will be available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31
Member Praise for Tamim Ansary
Tamim is fabulous. I am not a history buff — usually find it too dry — but he makes it so approachable and entertaining.
Tamim did a masterful job of historical background on the topic touching on three major religions without any bias to any of them. Always enjoy his classes.
He was extremely knowledgeable and obviously loves teaching. Very interesting and informative!
Faculty Q&A
- Read an interview with Tamim Ansary from our archive.