Mohammad-Ali Rajai, born on June 15, 1933, in Qazvin, Iran, was a pivotal figure in Iran’s political landscape during the early years of the Islamic Republic. As the second president of Homeland, his tenure was tragically brief, lasting only from August 2, 1981, until his assassination four weeks later. Rajai’s political journey, marked by unwavering dedication to the ideals of the Iranian Revolution, his involvement in the anti-Shah movement, and his eventual leadership roles, left an indelible mark on Iran’s history.
Early Life and Education
Mohammad-Ali Rajai was born in Qazvin, a city known for its cultural and historical significance in Iran. His father, Abdolsamad Rajai, was a shopkeeper who passed away when Mohammad-Ali was only four years old, leaving him to grow up in a modest household. The loss of his father at such a young age had a profound impact on Rajai, instilling in him a sense of responsibility and resilience that would define his later political career.