Mohammed Daoud Khan

ModernPoliticianAfghanistan1909 — 1978

First Afghan president who abolished the monarchy.

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Quick Facts

Born

1909

Died

1978

Country

Afghanistan

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)42

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)52

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)67

Strategy (15%)54

Total Score53.6

Mohammed Daoud Khan — Complete Timeline

1950 AD

Pashtunistan Policy (1950s-1960s)Political Action◆ Major

As Prime Minister (1953-1963), Daoud aggressively pursued the Pashtunistan policy, demanding the merger of Pakistan's Pashtun-majority areas into Afghanistan. This led to severe tensions with Pakistan, including border closures and diplomatic breaks, damaging Afghanistan's economy.

PashtunistanPakistan RelationsBorder Conflict

Impact: regional

1973 AD

Abolition of the Monarchy (1973)Political Action◆ Major

Mohammed Daoud Khan led a bloodless coup on July 17, 1973, while King Zahir Shah was abroad. He abolished the monarchy and declared Afghanistan a republic, becoming its first President. This ended the 226-year rule of the Barakzai dynasty.

CoupRepublicEnd of Monarchy

Impact: national

1978 AD

Saur Revolution (1978)Political Action◆ Major

Daoud was overthrown and killed on April 28, 1978, in the Saur Revolution, a coup led by the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan. His death marked the end of his republic and the beginning of communist rule, which led to decades of war.

CoupCommunist TakeoverDeath

Impact: nationaltragic