This episode of the "Empire" podcast interviews Ali Ansari, Professor of Iranian Studies, about the lead-up to the Iranian Revolution. The discussion begins with a quote from a British diplomat highlighting societal divisions in 1960s Tehran, then delves into the 1953 coup, exploring the roles of the CIA, MI6, and internal Iranian actors. Ansari details the Shah's consolidation of power, the creation of the SAVAK secret police, and the White Revolution's unintended consequences, including the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini. A key takeaway is the uneven distribution of wealth from the oil boom, fueling resentment and ultimately contributing to the revolution. The episode concludes by setting the stage for the revolution's unfolding in future episodes.
