5.+Pashtun+and+Hazara



Pashtun and Hazara

Aim Afghanistan consists of many different ethnicities. Pashtuns make the largest group, and are followed by the Hazaras. National Geographic Magazine states, “Pashtuns comprise the largest group and have traditionally commanded the most power. They’re followed by Tajiks, and then Hazaras” (Zabriskie). Both Hazaras and Pashtuns hold great importance in Afghanistan. Although Hazaras are the country’s third largest ethnicity, according to National Geographic, they have faced many centuries of persecution from Pashtuns and other groups. Despite these persecutions, Hazaras have become leaders in the growing and developing Afghanistan.

-Elizabeth Nadeau

Audience Pashtun and Hazara attracts those interested in the history, culture, economics, and values of Afghanistan. Hazaras have become leaders in Afghanistan, leaving learners wanting to know more about their place in society and how they came to that role. In addition, there are major difference between Pashtun and Hazara, which are terms commonly used together despite their ongoing conflict, that many may not know about. Samantha Laros states, “The Hazaras and the Pashtuns are two fundamentally different ethnic groups which inhabit Afghanistan” (Laros). Ultimately, the Hazaras and the Pashtuns have shaped Afghanistan today as they continure to experience a shift in its social classes and political structure.

-Riley Thompson

Historical The Hazaras hold most of the history behind their ethnicity. National Geographic states, “The story goes that Hazaras are descendants of Genghis Khan and his soldiers, who invaded in the 13th century. Genetic tests show that there is indeed some relationship, but Hazaras’ bloodlines also trace back to the area’s original inhabitants, various regional ethnicities, and travelers who passed along the Silk Route, including Turks and Tajiks.” (National Geographic) From this history, Afghanistan’s classes live much differently. Today, Hazaras make up nearly half of the city’s population in Afghanistan.

-Melanie Jones

Cultural Hazaras have very similar values to most of us in the United States. Education is highly values and is demonstrated through Hazara literacy. National Geographic states, “Education is especially important to them, and it shows/ Hazara literacy rates are higher than the national average, and nearly all Hazara children attend school and go on to university” (National Geographic). Hazaras demonstrate valued morals and choose them wisely. They are promised to helping build a more promising future for the entire nation of Afghanistan.

-Riley Thompson

"Comparing Pashtun and Hazara." Comparing Pashtun and Hazara. Web. 08 Nov. 2013.

Laros, Samantha. "What Is the Difference Between Hazara & Pashtun?" EHow. Demand Media, 21 Aug. 2011. Web. 08 Nov. 2013.

"National Geographic Magazine." National Geographic Magazine. NGM. Web. 08 Nov. 2013.