A new player emerges in Persian politics…
How a journalist and a military lieutenant orchestrated the 1921 coup d’état and how Reza Khan gained control of Iran’s military and became an influential player in the government.

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In the early 1920s, Persia faced a period of intense political turmoil following World War I. Amidst this chaos, two figures emerged with plans to reshape Persia’s future: Seyyed Zia al-Din Tabataba’i, a journalist turned political activist, and Reza Khan, a rising military leader from the Cossack Brigade.

On February 21, 1921, these men orchestrated a military coup in Tehran. Reza Khan led 4,000 Cossack soldiers into the capital, while posters declaring martial law appeared throughout the city. The existing government quickly fell, and Ahmad Shah appointed Sayyed Zia as the new prime minister.

Sayyed Zia’s tenure began with promises of reform and appeals to national pride. However, his rule lasted only three months before he was removed from office and exiled, having alienated both the elite and working classes.

While Sayyed Zia’s influence waned, Reza Khan’s power grew. As Minister of War, he unified the country’s military factions under his command. His successes in pushing back foreign influences and quelling internal rebellions won him widespread support.

By October 1923, Reza Khan had become so influential that Ahmad Shah appointed him Prime Minister. This marked a significant shift, as a man of humble origins now held the highest civilian office in the land.

For Reza Khan, however, this was just a stepping stone. He envisioned himself as the undisputed leader who could restore Persia to its former glory.

The post Book One – Ep.9: The Coup appeared first on The Lion and The Sun Podcast.