Massacre of Elphinstone's army at Gandamak

Background. Following the outbreak of revolt in Kabul in November 1841, Major-General Elphinstone negotiated a safe-conduct agreement for his force and camp followers. The British garrison, weakened by disease and restricted movement, began its retreat from Kabul in early January 1842. The march was intended to reach Jalalabad, a key station on the communication line to Peshawar, but the column faced immediate hostility from Afghan tribesmen.

The Retreat. The retreat began in early January 1842, with the column moving from Kabul. Afghan tribesmen launched attacks almost immediately, exploiting the column's vulnerability. Elphinstone, suffering from gout and rheumatism, struggled to command effectively. On 11 January, British officers met with Akbar Khan to request a halt to the attacks, but the violence continued, leading to the near-total destruction of the force.

Aftermath. The massacre at Gandamak resulted in the annihilation of the retreating column. Only a handful of survivors escaped, including Assistant Surgeon William Brydon, who reached Jalalabad on 13 January 1842. Another survivor, Lance-Sergeant Philip Edwards, fled to India over the following months. The destruction of the force prompted the British to send relief forces in spring 1842.