Was Iran Colonized in Contemporary History?
Was Iran Colonized in Contemporary History by Russia or Britain?
Iran, through its geographical location and the historical richness of its natural resources, has always attracted the attention of global empires. In its modern history, Iran has been plagued with invasions and interventions by foreign powers. However, were such intrusions a reason to assert that Iran was or had been colonized? This article scrutinizes the same with the help of historical facts.
Contents
Qajar Era and Influence of Russia and Britain
During the Qajar rule (1789-1925), the lot of Iran had fallen under both the influences of Russia and Britain. Examples of Russian influence include the Golestan Treaty of 1813 and the Turkmenchay Treaty of 1828, which resulted in major territorial losses for Iran. Britain, on the other hand, worked towards increasing its influence in southern Iran. Both these impacts made Iran a semi-colonial state, although it still retained national sovereignty.
Oil Discovery and Britain’s Changing Approach
The early 20th century discovery of oil completely transformed Iran-Britain relations. In 1908 the Darcy Company found the first reserves of oil in Khuzestan, and as a result, Iran’s situation began to change from a buffer state between Russia and India to an important economic asset of Britain. Britain had an increased power in Iran that changed it from a buffer state into a semi-colonial.
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Constitutional Revolution and Foreign Powers
The Constitutional Revolution (1905-1911) exposed the far-reaching powers of the foreigners on Iran. At this time, Britain was actively helping the demonstrators in their embassy. This furthering of interests is taking place by becoming a mediator between the government and the demonstrators. That was a clear sign of Iran’s subjugation to the foreign powers but still remained an independent country.
World War I and the 1907 Agreement
This was the time when due to strategic positioning of the country, Iran had been under pressure during the First World War. In the 1907 Agreement between Britain and Russia, Iran was divided into three spheres of influence: the north and center under Russian control, the southeast under British control, and a neutral zone in between. Though this line marked the extent of influence of these superpowers, yet Iran was mentioned as an independent state.
1953 Coup and Role of the US and Britain
The 1953 coup against Prime Minister Mossadegh, openly backed by the U.S. and Britain, amounted to a turning point in Iran’s modern history. This event came to confirm foreign interference in Iran’s domestic affairs once and for all. Though at times change was forced through the head of government, still yet Iran remained a free country and not colonized.
Islamic Revolution and End of Direct Interference
The 1979 Islamic Revolution removed direct foreign interference from Iran. It saw the overthrow of the Pahlavi regime and the establishment of the Islamic Republic, which eventually abolished long-term foreign influence and established the country’s independence. Ever since then, Iran has officially been recognized as an independent nation that rejected any form of direct foreign interference.
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Conclusion
Reviewing Iran’s contemporary history, it is evident that Iran was never truly colonized. Despite extensive foreign interventions and influences that imposed economic and political control, Iran maintained its status as an independent nation.
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