The Renaming of Persia to Iran and its Geopolitical Implications
March 21, 2026
The decision for Persia to be renamed Iran in 1935 was formalized through a letter to foreign embassies. Reza Shah Pahlavi sought to strengthen the national identity of the country, moving away from the 'exotic' image held by foreigners. This change symbolized Iran's desire to redefine its sovereignty, particularly concerning oil, which played a significant role in the country's politics. The decision was part of a broader strategy for Iran to position itself as an independent player on the geopolitical stage. Soon, Iran became closely linked to international energy shifts.