Uploaded May 2022 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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Iran’s modern history has been turbulent to say the least. Having been traumatised by its exposure to European imperialism, the country’s leaders were gripped by the desire to become more powerful. In their estimation, if they industrialised and modernised they would have a greater chance of being able to defend themselves against foreign aggression. The reign of the last Shah of Iran Mohammed Reza Shah brings this issue to light. Using the increased revenue of their oil sales, the Shah was able to launch a modernisation programme that saw Iran make rapid material progress. At the same time however, the dictatorial manner he adopted alienated many within Iranian society.

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Doug Maxwell - Arabian Nightfall (Sting):
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0:00 Intro
1:06 Pre-1953
4:13 Post-1953