The serious debate about the limits and role of American power in Afghanistan doesn't need nonsensical historical assertions, such as Jerry Johnston's that "the Afghan people have fought and defeated all invaders" ("Not even Alexander," Forum, Nov. 4). The territory and peoples of Afghanistan have not only been defeated, subjugated and converted in their practices in the past, but this has happened more than once.

Far from being unable to subdue Afghanistan, Alexander the Great and his successors established a thriving Greek-dominated state there, Bactria, which endured for three centuries before succumbing to other invaders. By far, the most dramatic effect on Afghanistan was the occupation and subjugation by foreign (Muslim) invaders in the seventh century A.D., the consequences of which are felt to this day.

Does this mean that the spread of foreign (Western) ideas and practices are likely or desirable in today's Afghanistan? Not necessarily. But it certainly shows this has happened before, contrary to popular assertions.

Ivaylo Ivanov

Salt Lake City