To what extent did Russo-British rivalry contribute to the outbreak of the First and Second Anglo-Afghan Wars?

Candidates will consider the merits or otherwise of the assumption in the question that Russo-British rivalry might have contributed to the outbreak of each war. They may fully agree, partially agree or disagree with this assumption. Candidates may adopt a chronological approach that contextualises the wars and that addresses the role of Russo-British rivalry in each. Alternatively, candidates may choose a comparative approach or a thematic one and balance Russo-British rivalry against a range of other factors such as regional ethnic tensions, the struggle for power between Afghan rulers, the expansionist ambitions of individual Afghan rulers, the control of trade routes, and the issue of diplomatic relations with European powers. Whichever method is used both wars will be addressed.