This comprehensive history of the Iranian Revolution views it in the context of an ongoing conflict between religious and political authorities dating back to the establishment of Shi'ism as the state religion of Iran in 1501. The historical context is seen as being critical in understanding the staying power of Khomeini's regime and its ruthless elimination of internal opposition to the Islamic Republic. The significance of the appearance of widespread popular discontent, the ideological differences among the ruling clergy, and the issue of Khomeini's succession are also considered, and the book concludes with a comparison between the Iranian Revolution and other famous historical revolutions.
Readership: Scholars and students of contemporary Middle Eastern history and politics, and the history of Islam.
Said Amir Arjomand, Associate Professor of Sociology, State University of New York at Stony Brook; Fellow, the Institute for Advanced Study
"`a thought-provoking work and a major contribution to serious scholarship on Iran, modern revolutions and the role of religion in contemporary politics.' New York Times Book Review"
" `Presents the Iranian revolution in context. The players in that drama may be no more lovable after you read this book, but they will be much more comprehensible.' Chicago Times"
