How did Iran’s political landscape change after 1945?

After 1945, Iran's political landscape underwent significant changes, marked by increased nationalism, political instability, and foreign intervention.

In the immediate aftermath of World War II, Iran experienced a surge of nationalism. This was largely due to the influence of Mohammad Mossadegh, who became Prime Minister in 1951 and nationalised the Iranian oil industry, which had been under British control. This move was popular among Iranians but led to a severe economic crisis due to a British-led boycott of Iranian oil. Mossadegh's government was eventually overthrown in a 1953 coup orchestrated by the United States and the United Kingdom, marking a significant instance of foreign intervention in Iran's political affairs.

The coup led to the reinstatement of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who had been briefly forced out of power. The Shah's rule, which lasted until 1979, was characterised by autocracy, corruption, and the suppression of political dissent. His attempts to modernise Iran and secularise society, known as the White Revolution, were met with resistance, particularly from religious and conservative groups. The Shah's regime was heavily supported by the United States, further highlighting the role of foreign powers in Iran's post-1945 political landscape.

The Shah's rule ended with the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which resulted in the establishment of an Islamic Republic under the leadership of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The revolution was a response to widespread dissatisfaction with the Shah's rule and represented a significant shift in Iran's political landscape, with the country moving from a monarchy to a theocracy. The new regime was marked by strict religious laws, the suppression of political dissent, and a hostile stance towards the West, particularly the United States.

In summary, Iran's political landscape after 1945 was marked by increased nationalism, political instability, and significant foreign intervention. The period saw the rise and fall of Mohammad Mossadegh, the reinstatement and eventual overthrow of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and the establishment of an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. These changes had profound impacts on Iran's political, social, and economic life, the effects of which are still felt today.