Islamic Revolution in Iran

The Islamic Revolution in Iran, which occurred in 1979, was a significant political upheaval that replaced the Western-backed monarchy of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi with an Islamic republic led by Ayatollah Khomeini. It emerged from widespread discontent with the Shah's authoritarian rule, social inequality, and Western influence. The revolution united diverse groups, including leftists, nationalists, and Islamists, under a common goal of transforming Iran. This shift dramatically altered the political landscape of the Middle East, inspiring other movements and reshaping U.S.-Iran relations, resulting in ongoing regional tensions and influencing broader geopolitical dynamics in the area.