History of Modern Iran

Modern Iran's history is marked by a series of transformative events. The 20th century began with the Constitutional Revolution (1905-1911), establishing political reforms. The 1953 CIA-backed coup overthrew Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, reinstating the monarchy under Reza Shah, leading to modernization but also repression. The 1979 Islamic Revolution replaced the Shah with an Islamic Republic, deeply influencing regional politics. Iran's 1980-1988 war with Iraq, ongoing tensions with the West, and a strong push for nuclear capabilities have solidified its role as a key player in the Middle East, balancing tradition and modernity amid complex geopolitical dynamics.