The British policy towards Afghanistan in the first half of the 19th century aimed at

  1. A. Strengthening Afghanistan as a buffer against Russia.
  2. B. Weakening Russian influence in Afghanistan but not promoting a strong Afghanistan either.
  3. C. Promoting Russian influence in Afghanistan to control insurgent tribal leaders.
  4. D. Annexing Afghanistan as a directly-controlled British Territory.

Correct Answer: B. Weakening Russian influence in Afghanistan but not promoting a strong Afghanistan either.

Explanation

During the first half of the 19th century (the Great Game era), British policy aimed to counter Russian expansion by ensuring Afghanistan remained a weak but independent buffer state, neither too strong nor under Russian influence.

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