Iranian Revolution

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The Iranian Revolution was a pivotal event in modern history, transforming Iran from a monarchy to an Islamic republic. It began in January 1978 with protests against the Pahlavi dynasty, led by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and culminated in February 1979 when the monarchy was overthrown. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who returned to Iran on February 1, 1979, became the central figure in the revolution. The revolution was driven by opposition to the Shah's Western-backed regime, which was seen as corrupt and oppressive. It combined nationalist, populist, and Islamic elements, reflecting widespread discontent with social and economic conditions. The revolution reshaped Middle Eastern politics by establishing an Islamic republic based on the concept of "Guardianship of the Islamic Jurists" (velayat-e faqih). On April 1, 1979, a national referendum overwhelmingly supported the new system. The revolution's impact was profound, leading to significant changes in Iran's political, social, and international relations. It resulted in a large diaspora and influenced regional dynamics, with Iran becoming a major player in Islamic politics. The revolution's legacy continues to shape Iran's internal politics and its relations with other countries, particularly in the context of its anti-Western stance and its role in promoting Islamic unity.