The Making of Modern Iran (Part 1)

The Making of Modern Iran (Part 1)

From Breaking History by The Free Press

January 14, 2026 · 1h 11m

About this episode

This episode explores the paradox of modern Iran, tracing its history of revolts and the empowerment of autocrats in the name of democracy.

Breaking History dives into the paradox at the heart of modern Iran: How a nation born in revolt, from the tobacco protests of the 1890s to the 1979 Revolution, has time and again empowered autocrats in the name of democracy. This week we trace the cycles of reform and repression that still shape Iran today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Topics covered

  • modern Iran
  • reform
  • repression
  • democracy
  • history
  • political cycles

Keywords

  • Iran
  • history
  • reform
  • repression
  • democracy
  • tobacco protests
  • 1979 Revolution

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Iran

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