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Ayatollah Khomeini

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description Ayatollah Khomeini Overview

Ruhollah Khomeini was an Iranian Shia cleric and politician who served as the first Supreme Leader of Iran from 1979 until his death in 1989. He was the central figure of the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the secular monarchy of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and established a theocratic government based on Islamic law. Khomeini's political and religious doctrine, known as Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), fundamentally restructured Iranian society and governance. His leadership significantly shifted geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East during the late twentieth century.

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When did Ayatollah Khomeini become the Supreme Leader of Iran?

Ayatollah Khomeini became the Supreme Leader of Iran in 1979 following the Islamic Revolution. He held this position as the highest political and religious authority in the country until his death in 1989.

What was Ayatollah Khomeini's role in the 1979 Iranian Revolution?

Khomeini was the central leader and spiritual figurehead of the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which successfully overthrew the secular monarchy of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. His return from exile galvanized the movement that established the Islamic Republic.

Where was Ayatollah Khomeini exiled before returning to Iran?

Before the revolution, Khomeini spent over a decade in exile, living primarily in the holy city of Najaf, Iraq. He later moved to Neauphle-le-Château, France, where he directed the revolutionary movement via cassette tapes and emissaries.

Who succeeded Ayatollah Khomeini as Supreme Leader of Iran?

Ali Khamenei succeeded Ayatollah Khomeini as the Supreme Leader of Iran following his death in 1989. Khamenei had previously served as the President of Iran during Khomeini's tenure.