The Rise and Fall of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi: How the Last Monarch of Iran Shaped a Nation Amidst Modernization and Turmoil

In his efforts to consolidate power, the Shah sought to cultivate a national identity that blended modernity and tradition. He funded cultural projects, including the establishment of the National Museum of Iran, to foster pride in the country's ancient civilization. Yet, there was a growing disconnect between the government's vision and the aspirations of everyday Iranians.