The Bala Hissar Gate, Kabul, 1879 (b/w photo)

The Bala Hissar Gate, Kabul, 1879. Photograph, 2nd Afghan War, 1879. The ancient Bala Hissar fortress was located south of the city overlooking the houses and bazaars from a commanding height. In 1879, during the 2nd Afghan War (1878-1880), when Major-General Frederick Roberts’ Kabul Field Force re-occupied the city, the fort was partially destroyed in retaliation for the killing of the British Resident Sir Louis Cavagnari and his diplomatic mission by the Afghans. From a photograph album compiled by Major (later Major General Sir) Alexander Robert Badock.