Part 4, Chapter 23 Summary

Mohammed Reza Pahlavi worshiped his pro-Nazi father, but in 1941 allowed British and Russian forces to place him on his throne. The young monarch faced massive problems. Educated in Switzerland, he was "too Westernized for an Oriental country," and this only added to his host of difficulties; leftists, reformers, and the military all itched for power; grinding poverty and hopelessness reigned; secessionism was widespread; bribery ran rampant; Moscow viewed his country as easy prey. The only nationally uniting element was the hatred of foreigners, the British in particular, and the AIOC represented their manipulation of Iran, a handy scapegoat in times of trouble. Its 1945-50 profits amounted to £250 million, compared to Iran's £90 royalties. In 1949 the Shah asserted authority by declaring martial law and adjusting AIOC's royalties to the 50/50 model. The U.S. State Department pressured London to comply, creating resentment...