Question

What types of reform did the Pahlavis introduce ? How did Iranian citizens respond ?

Answer 1

The first Shah of the Pahlavis Dynasty, Reza Shah came to power by means of a coup in 1921 and was able to secure power over the political and government system within a few years. He did so by establishing social structure and order, eliminating any threats to his power through rebellion, and having himself named Shah in 1925. Reza Shah wanted to implement sweeping reform programs including projects meant to industrialize Iran and improve access to public education and healthcare. While these programs were meant to help the Iranian people, some reacted harshly to his authoritarian style authroitarian style of rule and many religious and educated peoples spoke out against the ruler. 

Reza Shah was eventaully displaced from power, placed into exile by the British and succeeded by his son, Mohammad Reza Shah. Like his father, the second Pahlavi ruler supported reform programs meant to develop Iran's economy and support it's people. However, these attempts were meant with reservations by many people who faced more economic hardship and disparity rather than oppporutnity. This resentment led many to support revolutionary ideas and movements, which eventually saw the collapse of the Shah's government in 1978 and 1979.