Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi
Early Life
Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi was born on October 26, 1919, in Tehran, the capital of Persia, to Reza Shah Pahlavi and his second wife, Tadj ol-Molouk. His father, Reza Shah, was the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty, which ruled Iran from 1925 until the Islamic Revolution in 1979.
Ascension to the Throne
Reza Shah was forced to abdicate the throne on September 16, 1941, due to British and Soviet pressures, and his son, Mohammad Reza, ascended to the throne. At the age of 21, he became the youngest monarch in the world.
Reign
Mohammad Reza Shah's reign was marked by a series of political, social, and economic reforms known as the White Revolution. These reforms aimed to modernize Iran and transform it into a global power. However, they also led to widespread unrest and ultimately contributed to the downfall of the Pahlavi dynasty.
White Revolution
The White Revolution, launched in 1963, was a major land reform program initiated by Mohammad Reza Shah. It aimed to redistribute land from the nobility and the clergy to the peasants, modernize agriculture, and eliminate the feudal landholding system. The White Revolution also included measures to extend voting rights to women, nationalize forests and pastures, and launch massive literacy and health campaigns.
Opposition and Exile
Despite the Shah's efforts to modernize Iran, his rule was marked by widespread opposition due to perceived autocracy, corruption, and the influence of the United States. This opposition culminated in the Iranian Revolution of 1979, which led to the Shah's exile.
Death and Legacy
Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi died in exile in Egypt on July 27, 1980. Despite his controversial reign, he is credited with modernizing Iran and significantly improving the country's infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems.