The history of newspapers in Iran is an intriguing tale of evolution, influenced by both foreign and domestic forces. The journey began in the early 19th century, during the reign of Mohammad Shah Qajar, and continues to this day with the active role of media in Iranian society. The development of print media in Iran reflects the political, social, and cultural shifts that shaped the nation. Early newspapers in Iran were central to the modernization process, offering the first glimpses into the country’s interaction with global ideas while also serving as catalysts for internal change.
The first printed newspaper in Iran was founded in Tehran in 1216 AH (1801 CE), by Mirza Saleh Shirazi, a man who had been educated in England and was introduced to Western journalism. His work laid the groundwork for the Iranian press. The first issue of this publication, called Qaghaz Akhbar (meaning “paper news”), appeared on Monday, 25 Muharram 1253 AH (1 May 1837 CE). The name itself was derived from the English word “newspaper.” Despite its significance, no original copies of this newspaper remain today. In fact, very little is known about its precise publication history, such as its frequency or the duration of its run. However, the mere act of introducing a printed newspaper to Iran signaled the beginning of an important shift in the country’s media landscape.