In retrospect, the departure of the Shah was not merely the physical leaving of a ruler but the symbolic conclusion of an entire political era. For supporters of the revolution, January 16 became a day associated with liberation and the triumph of popular will over dictatorship. For others, especially those who later reflected on the political and social consequences of the revolution, it marked the beginning of a period of uncertainty, upheaval, and profound transformation.
With formation and expansion of the Islamic movement, harmony of public uprisings led by Khomeini, holding of the fortieth day ceremony for the martyrs in different cities, massacre of September 8, 1978, and strike of the employees of National Oil Company the regime lost control of the security of the country and the foundations of the 2500-year Imperial System were loosened within a short period of time resulting in the Shah’s escape.
