Iran and the Islamic Revolution Flashcards
What sense did Western countries have after the Islamic Revolution in Iran?
Triumphalism
Many intellectuals felt a sense of victory, particularly with the belief that liberal democracy had triumphed.
Who is associated with the idea of ‘The End of History’?
Francis Fukuyama
Fukuyama argued that liberal democracy had ‘won’ and that ideological conflicts were over.
What is a key connection between liberal democracy and market principles?
Secularism
This connection influences the role of religion in governance.
What revival occurred among Muslims in the late 20th century?
Fundamentalist brand of Islam
This revival was particularly notable in Sunni Islamicist religion.
What percentage of the global Muslim population do Shiites represent?
16%
Shiites make up a significant minority among Muslims.
In which countries do Shiites make up a majority?
Bahrain, Iraq, Iran
In Iran, Shiites constitute 93% of the population.
What historical role have Shiites traditionally held in Islam?
Secondary sect
Shiites have often been viewed as a minority compared to Sunnis.
What is Twelver Shiism known for?
Millenarianism
It emphasizes that people can contribute to the coming of the end of days through their actions.
Who do Sunnis recognize as the rightful successor to Mohammed?
Abu Bakar
Sunnis view him as the first Caliph.
Who do Shiites recognize as the rightful successor to Mohammed?
Ali
Ali is considered the first infallible imam by Shiites.
What term describes the Shiite belief in the hidden imam?
Mysteriously vanished
The hidden imam is believed to return to establish a divine Islamic government.
What is the role of the ulama in Shiite Islam?
Religious jurists
They often oppose secular authority and have been involved in reform movements.
What two viewpoints exist regarding the ulama’s role in society?
- Reactionary and removed
- Reformers and progressive
Scholars have differing opinions on the historical role of the ulama.
How do Iranians view their national identity?
Descendants of Indo-European tribes
This contrasts with their historical relationships with Arabs.
What was significant about the nationalization of the oil industry in Iran?
Led by Mohammad Mossadegh
The nationalization effort occurred in 1953, leading to a coup.
What was the outcome of the 1953 coup in Iran?
Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi returned to power
The coup was supported by British and American forces.
What was the main consequence of the Shah’s experiences during the coup?
Increased intolerance and hostility to opposition
This shift marked a change in his governance style.
What notorious secret police force did the Shah establish?
SAVAK
SAVAK was known for its oppressive tactics.
What was the Nixon Doctrine in relation to Iran?
Prop up local/regional allies
This doctrine aimed to support regional powers to fight ideological conflicts.
What major social campaign did Shah Mohammed Pahlavi undertake?
The White Revolution
This campaign aimed at modernization and reform but faced significant backlash.
What were the three factors leading to the Iranian Revolution?
- Class conflicts
- Doctrinal changes in Twelver Shiism
- Shah’s indecision
These factors contributed to the eventual overthrow of the Shah.
What type of government was established after the Iranian Revolution?
Islamic Republic
This government structure was characterized by religious authority over secular governance.
What were the three main characteristics of the Islamic Republic?
- Islamised government
- Islamised society
- Aggressive foreign policy
These elements defined the regime’s approach post-revolution.
