Islam · Communities & events
Revolution establishes Iran’s Islamic Republic
1979 CE
The Iranian revolution ended the monarchy and brought Ayatollah Khomeini to power. An Islamic Republic was proclaimed after a referendum, followed by a new constitutional order. The events linked religious authority and state institutions in a new political arrangement with far-reaching consequences.
Why it matters
The revolution is a major setting for modern debates about Islam and government; Iran’s particular institutions should not be mistaken for a model shared by all Muslims.
About the date
Monarchy fell in February; the republic was proclaimed in April, with a constitution in December.