The rulers on the Peacock Throne have been trying to modernize their country since the 18th century, without success. Iran becomes the plaything of the colonial powers. The CIA helps with the putsch – and promotes the Shah and his torturers. Read the third part of the series on the history of Iran
By Teja Fiedler
When he was crowned Shah in 1796, Aga Mohammad left no doubt as to how he wanted to govern: “Be aware that your troubles are only really beginning now,” he says to the assembled court, “because I can’t possibly put on the crown, if it is not combined with the power that the greatest rulers of Persia had.” The entourage applauds enthusiastically.