Daud Khan, Sardar Muhammad (1909–1978)

Afghan prime minister 1953–63 and president 1973–78. He was a cousin of King Muhammad Zahir Shah (ruled 1933–73). Opposition to his authoritarian rule forced his resignation from the premiership in 1963. With support from the Pathan tribes in the northwest and Soviet backing, he overthrew the monarchy in July 1973 and declared the country a republic. He was assassinated in a military coup.