What exactly was going on in 1981 in Afghanistan?

Question

I'm writing a paper on The Kite Runner and I need more details about the historical facts and what events were taking place in Afghanistan, preferably in March of 1981.

Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

The Soviet Union was occupying Afghanistan after a 1979 invasion. The US was covertly arming anti-Soviet rebels, including one Osama bin Laden, a CIA operative, who was charged with bringing materiel and cash to the mujahedeen rebel fighters.