The Man Who Would Be King
The First American in Afghanistan
What's it about
Ever wonder if a single person could really change the course of history? Discover the astonishing true story of Josiah Harlan, a Pennsylvania Quaker who traveled to 19th-century Afghanistan and, through sheer audacity and cunning, crowned himself king of a remote mountain province. Learn how Harlan used a blend of Western medicine, military strategy, and brazen deception to navigate the treacherous political landscape of the "Great Game." This tale reveals the timeless power of ambition, the complexities of cultural collision, and what it truly takes to build a kingdom from scratch.
Meet the author
Ben Macintyre is the bestselling author of multiple acclaimed works of espionage and historical narrative, celebrated for his masterful ability to unearth real-life stories of adventure and intrigue. A columnist and Associate Editor at The Times of London, he combines meticulous archival research with vivid storytelling to bring forgotten figures back to life. Macintyre’s expertise in historical intelligence and his passion for eccentric characters led him to the extraordinary tale of Josiah Harlan, the first American to enter Afghanistan.
What's it about
Ever wonder if a single person could really change the course of history? Discover the astonishing true story of Josiah Harlan, a Pennsylvania Quaker who traveled to 19th-century Afghanistan and, through sheer audacity and cunning, crowned himself king of a remote mountain province. Learn how Harlan used a blend of Western medicine, military strategy, and brazen deception to navigate the treacherous political landscape of the "Great Game." This tale reveals the timeless power of ambition, the complexities of cultural collision, and what it truly takes to build a kingdom from scratch.
Meet the author
Ben Macintyre is the bestselling author of multiple acclaimed works of espionage and historical narrative, celebrated for his masterful ability to unearth real-life stories of adventure and intrigue. A columnist and Associate Editor at The Times of London, he combines meticulous archival research with vivid storytelling to bring forgotten figures back to life. Macintyre’s expertise in historical intelligence and his passion for eccentric characters led him to the extraordinary tale of Josiah Harlan, the first American to enter Afghanistan.
The Script
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