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Insight Horizon Media

Why was the Shah of Iran overthrown?

Author

Sarah Cherry

Published Feb 25, 2026

Why was the Shah of Iran overthrown?

Reza Shah was deposed in 1941 by an invasion of allied British and Soviet troops who believed him to be sympathetic with the allies’ enemy Nazi Germany. His son, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was installed by the allies as monarch.

What happened to the Shah on January 16 1979?

On January 16, 1979, the last Shah of Iran, Muhammad Reza Shah Pahlavi fled the country, after being faced with country-wide protests and demonstrations. The Shah’s departure to Egypt threw the doors open to the Iranian Revolution, more popularly known as the Islamic Revolution, and for much political unrest.

Who took over the Iran government in 1979?

One of the most dramatic changes in government in Iran’s history was seen with the 1979 Iranian Revolution where Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was overthrown and replaced by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

When was the Shah of Iran deposed?

February 11, 1979Shah of Iran
Mohammad Reza Pahlavi/Deposed dates

What happened to the Shah of Iran in 1979?

The Shah died in exile in Egypt, whose president, Anwar Sadat, had granted him asylum.

Why was the Shah overthrown in Persepolis?

1905: Due to years of financial and political concessions to English and Russian powers to the detriments of the domestic economy and culture, nationalist uprisings against the Shah begin to take place in Persia (now Iran). This is later referred to as the Constitutional Revolution.

Who took over Iran after the Shah?

Mohammad Reza Pahlavi
Coronation26 October 1967
Prime Ministersshow See list
PredecessorReza Shah
SuccessorMonarchy abolished Ruhollah Khomeini as Supreme Leader

What ended the Iranian revolution?

January 1978 – February 1979
Iranian Revolution/Periods

Who was the Shah of Iran before 1979?

Mohammad Reza Pahlavi
Reign16 September 1941 – 11 February 1979
Coronation26 October 1967
Prime Ministersshow See list
PredecessorReza Shah

Who was the Shah of Iran in 1979?

Mohammad Reza Pahlavi
Official portrait, 1973
Shah of Iran
Reign16 September 1941 – 11 February 1979
Coronation26 October 1967