The Diverse Pursuits of the Last Shah of Iran

In essence, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi's sports and hobbies were a microcosm of his kingship: a carefully choreographed display of modernity and power. His personal pursuits—flying, collecting supercars—were extravagant displays of contemporary global success, while his national patronage of sports offered a unifying, visible testament to the progress of the White Revolution. Ultimately, the Shah's life showcased a leader deeply enamored with the sleek, swift symbols of the West, yet consciously linking that new power to the glorious legacy of ancient Persia.