The Political History of Modern Iran: Revolution, Reaction and Transformation, 1905 to the Present

The textbook provides a comprehensive and chronological guide to modern Iranian history and politics, covering key events, ideologies, and individuals from the rise of constitutionalism to the Iranian Revolution. It offers critical analysis, pedagogical features, and a timeline to assist students in understanding the complex and eventful history of Iran.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 744 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The history of modern Iran is a complex and multifaceted narrative that spans several centuries, marked by a series of significant events and transformations. From the rise of constitutionalism during the rule of despotic Qajars to the Iranian Revolution, the country has experienced a tumultuous and often unstable period. Foreign invasions, the Pahlavi regimes destructive politics, economic, cultural, and social modernization efforts, and the oil nationalization movement have all played pivotal roles in shaping the country's history.

The Iranian Revolution, in particular, held high hopes for a new and democratic Iran, but its promises were soon broken, leading to repression and intolerance that caused national discontent. Today, Iran is still grappling with the consequences of this socio-political upheaval, facing ongoing challenges and tensions.

In this textbook, Ali Rahnema, a renowned expert on modern Iran, has undertaken the task of rendering one hundred years of modern Iranian politics and history into easy-to-follow, episodic chapters. The book takes a chronological approach, providing students with a comprehensive and exhaustive guide to understanding the flow of contemporary Iranian history.

The textbook is designed with pedagogical features to enhance the learning experience. An initial chapter on how to study Iranian history and how to approach historiography provides valuable insights into the methodology and critical thinking skills required to analyze historical events. Images of key individuals discussed in each chapter help students visualize the individuals and their contributions to the country's history. Text boxes throughout the book highlight key episodes, concepts, and ideas, making the content more accessible and engaging.

Three types of exam questions—factual and analytical, seminar, and discussion—at the end of each chapter challenge students to apply their knowledge and critical thinking skills. Glossaries at the end of each chapter provide definitions of key terms and concepts, while a comprehensive timeline offers a visual representation of the events and periods discussed in the book.

Topics covered in the textbook include party formations, the flourishing of the press, the expansion or reduction of political and civil rights, repression and human right abuses, foreign intervention and influence, obsessions over conspiracies, the influence of Western ideologies, the role of nationalism, cultural and historical Persian chauvinism, and Shii Islam and competing Shiisms.

By exploring these topics in depth, the textbook provides students with a comprehensive understanding of modern Iran's history and politics. It serves as a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate-level courses on modern Iranian history and politics, equipping students with the core information, analysis, and critical assessment needed to comprehend the complex and multifaceted nature of the country's past.

In conclusion, the history of modern Iran is a rich and complex narrative that has shaped the country's present and future. This textbook offers a comprehensive and accessible guide to understanding the key events and transformations that have shaped Iran's history, providing students with the tools they need to gain a deeper appreciation of the country's past and its ongoing challenges.

Weight: 1286g
Dimension: 245 x 170 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755643998