Untitled Flashcards Set

Pahlavi

The ruling dynasty of Iran from 1925 to 1979, led by Reza Shah Pahlavi and later his son, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, before being overthrown in the Iranian Revolution.

Rentier State

A state that derives a significant portion of its revenue from renting its natural resources (such as oil) to external clients rather than taxation, leading to government control over wealth distribution.

Sanctions

Economic and political penalties imposed by other countries to influence Iran’s policies, often related to its nuclear program or human rights issues.

SAVAK

The secret police and intelligence agency under the Pahlavi monarchy, known for suppressing opposition through surveillance, torture, and imprisonment.

Shah

The title for the monarch of Iran, most notably Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, who ruled until the 1979 revolution.

Shari’a/Sharia Law

Islamic legal code derived from the Quran and Hadith, forming the basis of Iran’s judicial system after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Shi’ite

The dominant branch of Islam in Iran, which holds that leadership should descend from the Prophet Muhammad’s family, particularly through Ali and his descendants.

Subsidy

Government financial support, often used in Iran to control the prices of essential goods like fuel, bread, and electricity, sometimes leading to economic strain.

Supreme Leader

The highest authority in Iran’s government, currently Ali Khamenei, who oversees all branches of government and holds ultimate control over military and religious matters.

Sunni

The largest branch of Islam worldwide, differing from Shi’ites on leadership succession after Muhammad; a minority group in Iran.

Theocracy

A form of government in which religious leaders rule and laws are based on religious principles, as seen in post-1979 Iran.

Ulema

Islamic scholars and clergy who interpret religious texts and often play a key role in political and judicial affairs in Iran.

White Revolution

A series of reforms initiated by the Shah in the 1960s to modernize and Westernize Iran, including land redistribution, women’s rights, and infrastructure development, but it also increased opposition to his rule.

Assembly of Experts

A legislative body in Iran composed of elected clerics that is responsible for selecting and overseeing the Supreme Leader and has the authority to dismiss him if necessary.

Bazaars

Merchants and shopkeepers in Iran, historically an important and influential social group, involved in the traditional marketplace and playing a key role in Iranian politics.

Bonyads

Parastatal foundations in Iran controlled by the government or religious institutions, managing substantial wealth and playing a significant role in the economy and politics.

Expediency Council

An advisory body in Iran that resolves disputes between the Majlis (Parliament) and the Guardian Council and advises the Supreme Leader on national interest matters.

Green Movement/Revolution

A series of protests that began in Iran in 2009 following allegations of electoral fraud, characterized by demands for political reform and symbolized by the color green.

Guardian Council

A constitutional body in Iran that ensures laws passed by the Majlis comply with Islamic principles and oversees elections.

Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRGC)

A branch of Iran’s military established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, tasked with safeguarding the Islamic Republic system and holding significant power.

Islamic Cultural Revolution

A period starting in 1979 focused on transforming educational institutions and culture to reflect Islamic values after the Pahlavi regime's overthrow.

Majlis

The legislature of Iran, responsible for passing laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the executive branch, with members elected by the people.