History of Iran From Ancient Persia Until Today

Iran is one of the largest and most important countries in the Middle East, with abundant oil and natural gas supplies and a border along the vital Persian Gulf. Yet most Americans know fairly little about this vital country. In this class, we will explore Iran's long history and magnificent cultural heritage, dating back from the first great Persian Empire of Cyrus the Great, through the many empires that replaced it, and its decline in the modern age. We will learn about Iran's peoples, literature and poetry, all of which have combined to form its distinct sense of nationhood. We will examine how Iran turned from America's staunch ally under the last Shah to the bitter enemy of the West under the Ayatollahs, which it remains to this day. We will also discuss possible future scenarios for Iran and its people as the Islamic Revolution continues.