“The 1979 Revolution in Iran was the result of the policies of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement. Candidates may refer to the White Revolution, which aimed tom modernize Iran socially and economically. They maty argue that while the policies produced changes, they also led to much discontent from dispossessed peasants, urban workers and religious leaders, the latter group objecting to the changing role of women, for example. The Shah’s foreign policy was also unpopular as he was perceived as being too close to the US. Further, sound relations with Israel alienated many within Iranian society. The increasing pace of Westernization, which offended the clergy and traditionally-minded Iranians may also be discussed, as could the appeal of leaders such as Ayatollah Khomeini who objected to these policies and the direction they were taking Iran. While other relevant factors, for example the extravagance of the regime, may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.