History of pakhtoon

  A Comprehensive History of the Pashtun (Pakhtoon) Society The Pashtuns (Pakhtoons or Pathans) are an ancient ethno-linguistic group primarily found in Afghanistan and Pakistan , with significant diaspora communities in other parts of the world. They have a long and complex history shaped by their tribal traditions, Islamic influence, and interactions with various empires. 1. Origin and Early History The origins of the Pashtuns are debated among historians, but the most prominent theories suggest: Indo-Aryan Descent: Some scholars link Pashtuns to the ancient Indo-Aryan peoples who migrated to the region around 1500 BCE. Bactrian and Scythian Influence: Some believe Pashtuns have connections with Bactrian, Scythian, and other ancient Central Asian tribes. Semitic (Israelite) Theory: A popular but historically unverified theory among Pashtuns is that they are descendants of the lost tribes of Israel. Greek Influence: Following Alexander the Great’s conquest of the r...