Constitutional Revolution (Iran)

Constitutional Revolution (Iran)

The Constitutional Revolution of Iran (1905–1911) was a pivotal period in Iranian history, characterized by significant political and social upheaval aimed at establishing a constitutional monarchy. This movement arose due to widespread dissatisfaction with economic stagnation, growing Western influence, and the aftereffects of major international events, such as the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905 and the Russian Revolution of 1905.

Background

The revolution was ignited by the beating of a merchant, accused by Tehran’s governor of inflating prices. This incident catalyzed widespread unrest among mullahs and merchants, who sought sanctuary in Tehran’s royal mosque and demanded justice from the Shah. The unrest gained momentum, leading to radical preaching and occasional violence and ultimately the demand for the establishment of a parliament.

Establishment of the First Majlis

In 1906, the Shah conceded to the demands, leading to the creation of the first Majlis (National Assembly). This parliament aimed to limit the monarch’s power and bring greater representation to popular-class guilds. The intent was to form a constitutional monarchy where governance would be shared between the Shah, a parliament, and chosen ministers.

The Iranian Constitution

One of the significant achievements of this period was the drafting and establishment of the Iranian Constitution. This document codified many of the reforms and changes sought by the revolutionaries. Although largely ignored by subsequent monarchs, the constitution remained in effect and served as a reference point for political and social grievances up until the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Etymology

• Constitutional Revolution: Derived from the Latin word “constitutio,” meaning “a system or a set of laws.”
• Revolution: Derived from the Late Latin word “revolutio,” referring to a turn around.

Translations

• Arabic: الثورة الدستورية (Ath-Thawra Ad-Dustouriyya)
• Turkish: Meşrutiyet Devrimi

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. “Iran: A Modern History” by Abbas Amanat - This book provides an extensive overview of Iranian history, including the Constitutional Revolution.
2. “The Iranian Constitutional Revolution, 1906-1911: Grassroots Democracy” by Janet Afary - An in-depth look at the grassroots movements that propelled the revolution.
3. “The Making of Modern Iran: State and Society under Riza Shah, 1921–1941” by Stephanie Cronin - A detailed examination of Iranian society and state formation in the early 20th century.
4. “A History of Modern Iran” by Ervand Abrahamian - Offers a succinct, yet comprehensive account of Iran’s modern history.

Key Takeaways

• The Constitutional Revolution was driven by economic hardship, Western influence, and inspired by international revolutionary movements.
• The unrest led to the formation of the first Majlis in 1906, a significant step towards a constitutional monarchy.
• The Iranian Constitution drafted during this time influenced political developments up until the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
• Despite limited efficacy due to the monarch’s resistance, the revolution laid the groundwork for future political movements in Iran.

Conclusion

The Constitutional Revolution of Iran was a landmark event in the nation’s history, signifying the beginning of a serious challenge to monarchical absolutism. Although its achievements were somewhat limited in the short term, the establishment of the Majlis and the Iranian Constitution laid foundational elements for future governance and socio-political activism in Iran.