Episode Description
As U.S. imperialism once again circles Iran with the threat of intervention, those who oppose Washington’s reach often mistake the Islamic Republic for an anti-imperialist ally. This perception is rooted in the regime’s origins in the revolution of 1979. To understand the republic’s true character, however, communists must seriously study this history and draw the correct lessons.
In 1979, in one of the most inspiring revolutionary episodes of the post-war era, the hated Shah was ousted by a spontaneous mass movement that seized control of society without a pre-existing program or leadership. Yet, due to the disastrous policies of Stalinism, the revolution was betrayed in the true sense of the word; power was handed back to the ruling class, represented no longer by the monarchy, but by the supposedly "anti-imperialist" clergy.
This historic tragedy offers vital lessons for revolutionaries today, highlighting the necessity of a revolutionary party, the true nature of the fight against imperialism, and the enduring relevance of the theory of permanent revolution.
Recommended readings:
Thirty years since the Iranian Revolution
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