History

      Mirza Ali Qoli Khan Nabil al-Dawlah: A Pioneer in Diplomacy and Politics Mirza Ali Qoli Khan Nabil al-Dawlah (1911–1935) stands as a significant figure in the history of modern Iran, having left an indelible mark on the country’s diplomatic, political, and intellectual spheres. A trailblazer in his era, he is remembered not only as the first Iranian …

A Memorable Visit: Sainte Anne De Valence College Students at Niavaran Palace in 1972 The year 1972 marked a significant moment for a group of students from Sainte Anne De Valence College in France as they embarked on an educational journey to Iran. Among the highlights of their trip was a visit to the breathtaking Niavaran Palace, a stunning royal …

The Visit of Belgian King Baudouin and Queen Fabiola to Tehran in 1964: A Diplomatic Landmark The visit of King Baudouin of Belgium and his wife, Queen Fabiola, to Capital on November 16, 1964, was a significant moment in the history of Belgian-Iranian relations. As part of their diplomatic tour, the royal couple was warmly welcomed by Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, …

Khak (1973): A Cinematic Adaptation of Mahmoud Dolatabadi’s Awsaneh Baba Sobhan Khak is a 1973 Iranian film directed and written by the acclaimed filmmaker Masoud Kimiai. Based on Mahmoud Dolatabadi’s novel Awsaneh Baba Sobhan, the film marked a significant cultural and artistic endeavor in Iranian cinema. Despite its remarkable cinematography and artistic achievements, the film stirred controversy due to its …

Parviz Shahriari: A Life Dedicated to Mathematics, Education, and Activism Parviz Shahriari (December 2, 1926 – May 12, 2012) was a mathematician, translator, educator, writer, journalist, and political activist whose legacy remains a cornerstone in the advancement of modern education in Iran. Over the course of his life, Shahriari became one of the most prominent figures in contemporary Iranian history, …

The Report (Gozaresh in Persian), directed and written by the renowned Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami, is a poignant and introspective film that was released in 1977. Known for his minimalist style and profound exploration of human emotions, Kiarostami presents a layered narrative that delves into themes of personal morality, domestic tension, and societal pressures. The film stars Shohreh Aghdashloo in …

Vida Hajji Tabrizi (1935–1996) was one of the most influential Marxist figures of her time, remembered for her revolutionary spirit, political activism, and contribution to the global leftist movement. A woman of profound courage and conviction, Hajji’s life story reflects her commitment to justice, equality, and the fight against oppression. Her journey spanned continents, from Iran to Latin America and …

Mike and Jenny were waiting for me in the steaming snarl of traffic on Roosevelt Avenue. My younger brother and sister were on vacation from high school in the States and I was going awol from my job teaching English at an ESL Institute. I brandished the wad of cash I’d wrested from my lecherous boss, leapt into the VW …

Amir Rasaei (born 1321) is a prominent figure in Iranian pop music, known for his significant contributions to the genre before the 1957 Iranian Revolution. His life and career span multiple decades, during which he left an indelible mark on Iranian music, particularly in the pop and rock genres. Born in the Shemiran neighborhood of Tehran, Amir Rasaei’s early life …

In the early 40s, Shahram Shabpareh, a passionate musician with a vision for creating vibrant, genre-defying music, laid the foundation for what would later become an influential group known as The Rebels. The Rebels emerged at a time when Iran’s music scene was dominated by traditional melodies and classical Persian compositions. Shahram’s innovative spirit and his passion for modern music …