The White Revolution, which sought to redistribute land, expand education, and grant women rights, was met with resistance from both religious leaders and landowners. While the Shah viewed these reforms as necessary for Iran’s progress, many saw them as an attack on Islamic traditions. The clergy, led by figures such as Ayatollah Khomeini, became increasingly vocal in their opposition, viewing the Shah as a puppet of the West and an enemy of Islam.
In the 1970s, oil revenues skyrocketed, giving the Shah unprecedented financial resources. He used these funds to expand Iran’s infrastructure, build new industries, and increase military spending. However, corruption and economic mismanagement meant that much of the wealth did not trickle down to the average citizen. Inflation soared, and economic disparity widened, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
By the late 1970s, opposition to the Shah had reached a boiling point. Protests erupted across the country, led by a coalition of religious groups, intellectuals, and leftist organizations. The Shah’s attempts to suppress these demonstrations with military force only intensified the opposition. The exiled Ayatollah Khomeini became a symbol of resistance, rallying support from abroad and within Iran.
