Untitled Flashcards Set

Front: Pahlavi
Back: 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.

Front: Rentier State
Back: 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.

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

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

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

Front: Shari’a/Sharia Law
Back: Islamic legal code derived from the Quran and Hadith, forming the basis of Iran’s judicial system after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Front: Shi’ite
Back: 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.

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

Front: Supreme Leader
Back: 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.

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

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

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

Front: White Revolution
Back: 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. It also has the authority to dismiss the Supreme Leader if necessary.

Bazaars: Merchants and shopkeepers in Iran, historically an important and influential social group. They are involved in the traditional marketplace or bazaar and have played a key role in Iranian politics, especially during revolutionary movements.

Bonyads: Parastatal foundations or organizations in Iran that are controlled by the government or religious institutions. These foundations often manage substantial wealth and play a significant role in the economy and politics of the country.

Expediency Council: An advisory body in Iran that resolves disputes between the Majlis (Parliament) and the Guardian Council, particularly regarding legislation. It also advises the Supreme Leader on matters of national interest.

Green Movement/Revolution: A series of protests that began in Iran in 2009 following allegations of electoral fraud in the presidential elections. The movement was characterized by demands for greater political reform and democratic rights, symbolized by the color green.

Guardian Council: A constitutional body in Iran that ensures laws passed by the Majlis comply with Islamic principles. It also oversees elections and has the power to veto candidates for office, including for the presidency and parliament.

Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRGC): A branch of Iran’s military established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, tasked with safeguarding the country's Islamic Republic system. The IRGC plays a powerful role in Iran's political, military, and economic spheres.

Islamic Cultural Revolution: A period in the early years of the Islamic Republic of Iran, beginning in 1979, focused on transforming educational institutions and cultural life to reflect Islamic values and principles after the overthrow of the Pahlavi regime.

Majlis: The legislature of Iran, formally known as the Islamic Consultative Assembly, responsible for passing laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the executive branch. Members of the Majlis are elected by the people.