Part 1/16:

The Tumultuous Path to Persia's 1921 Coup: A Crucial Turning Point

Introduction: Persia at the Crossroads of Empire and Nationalism

At the dawn of the 20th century, Persia—modern-day Iran—found itself ensnared in the intense geopolitical tug-of-war known as the Great Game. Dominated by the competing interests of Britain and Russia, Persia was a fragmented state characterized by a highly decentralized political structure. While the Shah in Tehran, from the Kajar dynasty, ostensibly held central authority since 1789, real power often lay with tribal leaders enjoying significant autonomy.