Mohammad Zahir Shah

Mohammad Zahir Shah became King of Afghanistan at age 19 after the assassination of his father, Nadir Shah. His reign lasted 40 years, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in Afghan history. He initially ruled under the guidance of his uncles.

Zahir Shah promulgated a new constitution in 1964, transforming Afghanistan into a constitutional monarchy. The constitution established a bicameral parliament, guaranteed civil liberties, and allowed for political parties. This period, known as the 'New Democracy,' saw a flourishing of political activity.

While undergoing medical treatment in Italy, Zahir Shah was overthrown in a coup by his cousin Mohammed Daoud Khan on July 17, 1973. He abdicated and remained in exile in Rome for nearly 30 years, ending the Afghan monarchy.

After the fall of the Taliban, Zahir Shah returned to Afghanistan in April 2002 as a private citizen. He was welcomed by the new government but declined to reclaim the throne, instead supporting the political process. He died in 2007 in Kabul.