Welcome to the Lion and the Sun Podcast: A Modern History of Iran

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Iran’s history has been a never-ending struggle for liberty and independence. In this podcast, Oriana tells the story of how Iran ended up where it is now and how religion, monarchy, democracy, and nationalism all played important roles in defining the lives of its people. A journey that expands 200 years and reaches through three different political systems. New episodes every other Wednesday.

History

Society & Culture

An old king tries to reclaim his throne, the United States sends Morgan Shuster to help Iran's finances, and Russia invades. The complicated history of Iran and Russia and how the Russian influence impacted Iran's democracy.

Book One – Ep.6: Russian Roulette

Two constitutionalist armies arrive at the gates of Tehran and Mohammad Ali Shah prepares the capital of Iran for an all-out war. How battle of Tehran reshaped the future of democracy in Iran and how the country was forced to change in its aftermath.

Book One – Ep.5: Battle of Tehran

The battle for Iran's constitutional democracy rages on as the reactionary forces of Mohammad Ali Shah lay siege to the Parliament. In the aftermath of brutal bombardment, pockets of resistance emerge across the nation. Amidst chaos and bloodshed, the very soul of Iran hangs in the balance. Who will prevail in this defining struggle for the future of the nation?

Book One – Ep.4: The Bombardment

What comes after establishing democracy in a nation? Protecting it at all costs.

In this episode, the ideals of democracy clash with the limitations of Islam and the new Shah maneuvers to undermine the parliament's authority, even as the people take to the streets to defend their hard-won freedoms.

Book One – Ep.3: Tale of Two Shahs

What can you do when the king is assassinated, prices are high and the country is in crisis? You demand a parliament. The story of how Persia's first national assembly (Majlis) was established and how democracy found its way into Iran.

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