Why britisher acted so cruelly in the war of 1868?

The British actions during the war of 1868, particularly in the context of the Second Anglo-Afghan War, were driven by imperial interests and a desire to assert control over Afghanistan and its strategic location. British forces often employed harsh military tactics to suppress resistance and maintain dominance, which was exacerbated by a lack of understanding of local cultures and political dynamics. The cruelty exhibited was largely a reflection of colonial attitudes of the time, viewing local populations as obstacles to be subdued rather than partners in governance. Such actions contributed to long-lasting resentment towards British rule in the region.