iran study guide

Iran's Geography

Located at a strategic crossroads connecting Central Asia, Asia Minor, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Caucasus Mountains.

why is iran vulnerable to invasions?

Iran has historically been vulnerable to invasions by empires such as the Mongols and Arabs due to its geographical position.

what shapes iran’s economy

Iran is the second-largest oil producer in the Middle East and the fourth largest globally, with vast petroleum reserves shaping its economy.

what percentage of iran’s population is urbanized and concentrated in specific regions?

67% of Iran's population is concentrated on 27% of its land, primarily in urban areas.

religion in iran

89% of the population adheres to Shi’a Islam, a defining cultural and political feature.

Shi'ite Islam

Believes that only direct descendants of Muhammad, starting with Ali, are legitimate successors

Sunni Islam

The majority branch of Islam that believes leadership should be elected from the Muslim community and not restricted to Muhammad's bloodline.

Safavid Rule

Established Iran as a Shi'ite state and forcibly converted the predominantly Sunni population to Shi'ism.

Qajar Dynasty

A Turkish tribe that maintained Shi'ism but did not claim descent from the Imams, which weakened their legitimacy.

Constitutional Revolution (1905-1909)

Drives by merchants and intellectuals, it forced the adoption of a constitution limiting monarchical power.

Theocratic Element of the 1906 Constitution

Guardian Council of Clerics given veto power over legislation to ensure compliance with Islamic law.

Reza Shah's Rule

A military officer who seized power, centralized authority, and secularized politics while modernizing the economy.

Muhammad Reza Shah's Authoritarianism

Faced opposition and created SAVAK, a secret police force to suppress dissent after his return to power.

White Revolution (1963-1979)

A series of reforms launched by Muhammad Reza Shah including land reform and women's rights, which alienated traditionalists.

1979 Iranian Revolution

Brought about the Islamic Republic, flourishing under the leadership of Ayatollah Khomeini.

Khomeini's Role in the Revolution

Charismatic leader who unified diverse opposition and established the Islamic Republic.

Iranian Political Legitimacy Sources

Democratic legitimacy through elections and theocratic legitimacy through clerical authority.

Green Movement (2009)

A protest wave calling for transparency following contested presidential elections, met with violent suppression.

Iran's Judiciary

Lacks independence as the Supreme Leader appoints its head, with judicial review ensuring laws comply with Islam.

Rentier State

Relies on external rents, such as oil, rather than taxes, leading to economic instability.

Bonyads

Religious endowments managing vast economic assets with minimal accountability.

Iran's Ethnic Groups

Majority: Persians (61%), Minorities: Azeris (16%), Kurds (10%), Arabs (2%), and Baloch (2%).

Women in Iran

Experience high education rates and professional roles but face restrictions such as mandatory hijab.

Role of the Basij

Volunteer militia enforcing moral codes and suppressing dissent in Iran.

Qanun

Secular laws passed by Iran's parliament, which must be reviewed for compatibility with Islamic principles.