Afghanistan is a mysterious country for many foreigners. From its hostile landscape to the traditional social norms shared by its population, Afghanistan continues to mystify the world. The country's unique location influenced its history and its people, as well as that of the nations and armies that attempted to conquer it. Like all nations, Afghanistan's geography, infrastructure, history, and people contribute to the country's overall culture. The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is located in South Asia. It is a landlocked country. The countries bordering Afghanistan are Pakistan to the east and south, Iran to the west and Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan to the north. The country also shares a small border with China that is only 76 kilometers long. It is the 41st largest country in the world, covering approximately 652,000 square kilometers. The geography varies greatly within its borders. The lowest altitude is 258 meters above sea level while its highest peak reaches 7,485 meters. The majority of the territory is rugged mountains with a semi-arid to arid climate, with pockets of arable lowlands making up about twelve percent of the country's landmass (cia.gov). The most important mountain range is the Hindu Kush, in the northeast of the country. Temperatures vary considerably depending on the seasons and altitudes. In the capital Kabul, temperatures can drop well below zero Fahrenheit in winter and reach an average of 90° F in the warmer months. Low-elevation areas maintain an average above 100°F in summer (“Afghanistan Profile” 6). Historically, harsh winters and summers dictate peak fighting periods in the spring and fall. Agriculture is an important aspect in the lives of Afghan citizens...... middle of paper ......2014. Internet. March 23, 2014. Works Cited Afghanistan: Communications. Petaluma: World Trade Press, 2010. E-book. “Afghan Profile”. Asia and the Pacific Review. (2006). Print. Afghanistan: Society and culture. Petaluma: World Trade Press, 2010. E-book. “History of Afghanistan”. Nations Online. One world, nd Web. March 23, 2014. Redaelli, Silvia et al. Urban Displaced Persons Research Study – Afghanistan. Kabul: World Bank, 2011. Web.Rasanayagam, Angelo. Afghanistan: a modern history. London: IB Taurus & Company, 2003. E-book. Sieff, Kevin. “After billions of American investments, Afghan roads are collapsing. » Washington Post, January 30, 2014. Web. Tanner, Stephen. Afghanistan: a military history from Alexander the Great to the war against the Taliban. Cambridge: Da Capo Press, 2009. E-book. World Fact Book. CIA.gov. np, March 11, 2014. Web. March 23 2014.