Chapter one covers the circumstances of al-Qaida’s foundation in 1988, and activities during the first years of its existence from 1988-1992. Al-Qaida was initially founded to be an elite Muslim combat unit that would serve as an example and inspiration to Afghan guerrillas. Contrary to common belief, al-Qaida did not withdraw from Afghanistan in 1989, but continued being deeply engaged on the frontlines until the fall of the Afghan Communist regime to the mujahidin in 1992. Al-Qaida in this period formulated their training philosophy which was improved and expanded under the Taliban regime. The professionalism of al-Qaida’s training camps stand in contrast to the reckless military decisions sometimes taken by Osama bin Laden. This discrepancy was caused by the peculiar mix of people that made up al-Qaida’s leadership at the time: Osama bin Laden, a man with no military experience of his own, but with a strong commitment to following the ideals of the Prophet Muhammed. And Abu Ubaydah and Abu Hafs al-Masri, former officers in the Egyptian Army.