Over time studies of homeland’s glorious history and present reality of a declined Qajar period led many to question what led to Iran’s decline. Ultimately persian history was categorized into two periods pre-Islamic and Islamic. Homeland’s pre-Islamic period was seen as prosperous while the Arab invasions were seen as, ‘a political catastrophe that pummelled the superior civilization under its hoof.’
Upon his return, Nahavandi began his career as a university lecturer, quickly rising through academic ranks due to his intellect and administrative skills. He became a professor at the University of Tehran, leading institution of higher learning, and was later appointed as its President (1969–1971). He also sought to protect the university’s autonomy, though this proved challenging under the constraints of Iran’s authoritarian political environment at the time. His reputation as a pragmatic reformer and capable administrator brought him to national attention.
