The Shah

Abbas Milani's biography of Mohammad-Reza Shah Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, traces his rise to power, his rule, and his overthrow in 1979. The Shah died in 1980, yet his life and reign continue to influence contemporary Middle Eastern politics. During his long rule, the Shah implemented social reforms including building schools and advancing women's equality, while reducing the Shia clergy's influence. He elevated Iran to global power status through relationships with Western leaders and nationalized the country's natural resources. However, he was deeply conflicted and insecure in his role, and his intolerance of political dissent ultimately led to his downfall by those whose loyalty he sought. This account examines how Iran transformed from a politically moderate monarchy into a totalitarian Islamic republic, and explains the complex historical path leading to current US-Iran relations. Milani's research draws on thousands of recently declassified British, American, and Iranian documents, along with hundreds of interviews.