Shebertoo, Afghanistan -- Abdul Hussain had left his home after the Taliban took control of his village during their rise to power. Hazara tribespeople such as he were persecuted by the Taliban until late 2001, when the Taliban was forced out. Returning to a vandalized village struggling with poverty and disease, he had no money and feared that his sick 2-year-old son would soon die. As cold weather set in and food was in short supply, many Hazara here faced a bleak and difficult winter. Dec. 5, 2001.