An Analysis of Reza Shah Pahlavi’s Modernization Policies and Their Political Consequences

Abstract

The reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi marked a pivotal stage in the formation of the modern Iranian state. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this study examines the Shah’s modernization policies in the military, administrative, educational, and economic sectors, and their impact on the country’s political structure. Findings show that the centralization of power, establishment of a regular army, bureaucratic reforms, expansion of modern education, and infrastructural development contributed to the consolidation of state authority. However, the elimination of traditional institutions, restrictions on political participation, suppression of opposition, and excessive concentration of power weakened civil society and hindered the emergence of democratic culture. The study concludes that while this authoritarian modernization created a strong central state, it also laid the groundwork for future political crises.