Will Taliban Rule Be Any Different This Time?
The militant group terrorized Afghans and was shunned by the world for its harsh rule from 1996 to 2001. The Taliban are more image conscious now, but haven't changed any fundamental principles.
The last time the Taliban rolled into Kabul and took control of Afghanistan, back in 1996, they immediately established a reputation for harsh rule and brutal tactics.
Public executions were carried out by stoning at a soccer stadium. Women were barred from work, and girls from school. Television, videos and music were banned. Men were beaten if they didn't pray five times a day or cut their beards.
The Taliban quickly alienated many Afghans, who
