Mohammed Zahir Shah (October 15, 1914 – July 23, 2007) is the last King of Afghanistan, reigning from November 8, 1933 until he is deposed on July 17, 1973.

He expands Afghanistan's diplomatic relations with many countries, including with both Cold War sides.

In the 1950s, Zahir Shah begins modernizing the country, culminating in the creation of a new constitution and a constitutional monarchy system.

His long reign is marked by peace in the country that is lost afterward.

While on vacation in Italy, Zahir Shah's regime is overthrown in a "white coup" in 1973 by his cousin and former prime minister, Mohammed Daoud Khan, who establishes a republic.

He remains in exile near Rome until 2002, returning to Afghanistan after the end of the Taliban government.

He is given the title Father of the Nation, which he holds until his death in 2007.