Famous Iranian Leaders

Mohammad Mosaddegh was an Iranian politician, author, and lawyer who served as the 30th Prime Minister of Iran from 1951 to 1953. He was a member of the Iranian parliament and introduced various social and political measures during his administration, including social security, land reforms, and higher taxes. His most significant policy was the nationalization of the Iranian oil industry, challenging British control. Following a coup orchestrated by the UK and the US, he was imprisoned, put under house arrest, and eventually buried at his home to avoid political unrest.

Shapur I was the second Sasanian King of Kings of Iran, ruling from 240 to 270. He expanded the empire through conquests, including the capture of Roman cities like Nisibis and Carrhae. Despite some defeats, he secured a favorable peace treaty with Rome. Shapur took advantage of Roman turmoil, sacking cities like Antioch and Dura-Europos. He famously defeated and captured the Roman emperor Valerian. Shapur focused on plundering rather than permanent occupation, amassing riches and resettling captives. He enhanced Zoroastrianism, built fire temples, and revitalized cities.

Babak Khorramdin was a prominent Iranian revolutionary leader who led the Khorram-Dinān movement against the Abbasid Caliphate. He spearheaded a rebellion in Azerbaijan, calling for a revival of Iran's political prestige. The Khorramdin rebellion spread across Western and Central Iran, lasting over two decades until Babak was ultimately betrayed. His uprising reflected the enduring influence of ancestral Iranian sentiments in Azerbaijan. Babak's efforts were aimed at restoring the glories of Iran's past and challenging the dominance of the Abbasid Caliphate.

Nizam ul-Mulk was a Persian scholar, jurist, and vizier of the Seljuk Empire. Rising from a low position, he became the de facto ruler after Sultan Alp Arslan's assassination. Known as the "good vizier," he is regarded as a crucial figure in Islamic history. He established a system of madrasas known as Nizamiyyas and authored the Siyasatnama, a political treatise on justice, effective rule, and government's role in Islamic society. His policies laid the foundation for administrative structures in the Muslim world until the 20th century.

Zerubbabel was a governor of the Achaemenid Empire's province of Yehud and the grandson of Jeconiah, a king of Judah. He led a group of 42,360 Jews back from Babylonian captivity during the reign of Cyrus the Great. Zerubbabel is credited with laying the foundation of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, a significant achievement in the religious and cultural history of the Jewish people. His leadership and role in the rebuilding of the temple demonstrate his importance in the restoration of Jewish identity and worship practices.

Shapour Bakhtiar was an Iranian politician who served as the last Prime Minister of Iran under Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. He was known for his staunch opposition to clerical despotism and warned of the dangers of mullah-led fascism. Bakhtiar's professional life was marked by his efforts to uphold democratic values and resist authoritarian rule. Tragically, he was assassinated in 1991 in his home in France by agents of the Islamic Republic, highlighting the risks he faced for his political beliefs.

Shapur II, also known as Shapur the Great, was the longest-reigning monarch in Iranian history, holding the title of Sasanian King of Kings from birth until his death. His reign was characterized by military resurgence and territorial expansion, marking the start of the first Sasanian golden era. He successfully led military campaigns against Arab insurrections, earning the nickname 'Dhū'l-Aktāf'. Shapur II implemented a harsh religious policy, completing the collection of the Avesta and persecuting Christians in reaction to Constantine the Great's Christianization of the Roman Empire. The Sasanian Empire was at its strongest at the time of his death.

Fazlollah Zahedi was an Iranian lieutenant general, statesman, and military strongman known for his role in the coup d'état that removed Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh from power. He served as Prime Minister of Iran following the coup and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape during a tumultuous period. Zahedi's career was marked by his close ties with foreign powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, which supported his rise to power and influence in Iran.

Ardeshir Zahedi was an Iranian politician and diplomat known for his significant contributions in the realm of foreign affairs. He served as the foreign minister of Iran from 1966 to 1971, playing a key role in shaping the country's diplomatic relations during a crucial period. Additionally, Zahedi held the esteemed positions of ambassador to the United States and the United Kingdom in the 1960s and 1970s, further showcasing his expertise in international diplomacy and his commitment to representing Iran on the global stage.

Sogdianus briefly ruled the Achaemenid Empire for about six months in 424–423 BC. His reign is largely known from the writings of Ctesias, though Ctesias is considered unreliable. Sogdianus was believed to be an illegitimate son of Artaxerxes I by his concubine Alogyne of Babylon. Despite his short rule and limited recognition, Sogdianus briefly held power within the empire before being overthrown.

Abu Muslim Abd al-Rahman ibn Muslim al-Khurasani was a Persian general who played a significant role in the Abbasid Revolution that overthrew the Umayyad dynasty, leading to the establishment of the Abbasid Caliphate. He initially rose to prominence through his involvement with Abbasid agents and was later instrumental in igniting a revolt against Umayyad rule in Khorasan. Abu Muslim successfully strengthened Abbasid control in the region and was appointed as the governor of the province. Despite his achievements, he was eventually executed on charges of heresy by the Abbasid caliph.

Amir Kabir served as chief minister to Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, implementing significant reforms during his tenure. He is recognized as Iran's first reformer, striving for modernization through initiatives like establishing higher education centers and Persian-language newspapers. Notably, he outlawed bribery and torture, reformed the tax system, and suppressed the Bábí movement. Despite his efforts for gradual reform, he faced opposition and was eventually exiled and executed on the orders of the Shah in 1852.

Amir-Abbas Hoveyda was an Iranian economist and politician who served as Prime Minister of Iran for over a decade, making him the longest-serving prime minister in the country's history. He also held positions as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Hoveyda played a significant role in shaping Iran's economic policies and political landscape during his tenure. However, following the Iranian Revolution, he faced charges related to his time in office and was ultimately executed after being tried by the Revolutionary Court.

Mohammad-Ali Rajai was an Iranian politician who served as the second president of Iran for a brief period in 1981. Prior to his presidency, he held the position of prime minister and foreign affairs minister. His tenure as prime minister was under Abolhassan Banisadr. Rajai's professional life was marked by his involvement in various political roles within the Iranian government, culminating in his presidency. Tragically, his career was cut short by his assassination in a bombing alongside then-prime minister Mohammad-Javad Bahonar.

Abbas Mirza was a prominent military commander during the Russo-Persian Wars and the Ottoman-Persian War. Despite his efforts to modernize Iran's armed forces, the outcomes of these conflicts proved disastrous for Persia. He played a significant role in the loss of Persian territories in the Caucasus to Russia as outlined in the treaties of Gulistan and Turkmenchay. Abbas Mirza was known for his intelligence, military leadership, and comparative simplicity in his personal life.

Bahram Chobin, also known as Mehrbandak, was a nobleman, general, and political leader of the late Sasanian Empire. He began as the governor of Ray before becoming the army chief of the northwestern regions following his victory at Dara. He later served as spahbed in Khorasan and successfully led campaigns against invaders. Bahram's noble lineage, abilities, and achievements elevated his status in Iran. Despite facing opposition from the Sasanian king, he rebelled to establish the Arsacid Empire, but was ultimately defeated by Khosrow II.

The Surenas were a prominent Parthian noble family known for their significant role in political and military affairs during the Arsacid period. They held the privilege of crowning the first Parthian king and continued this tradition through generations. The family later aligned with the Sassanids after the defeat of the Arsacids. As landowners in Sakastan, they governed Sistan as their personal fiefdom. Notable members of the family include cavalry commander Surena, Gregory the Illuminator, and Chihor-Vishnasp, who promoted Zoroastrianism in Armenia. The House of Suren produced influential figures such as Mehr Narseh, a minister to multiple Sasanian kings.

Ismail Samani was a prominent Samanid amir who ruled over Transoxiana and Khorasan. His reign marked the rise of the Samanids as a significant political power. He was known for his leadership skills and strategic abilities, which helped consolidate the influence of the Samanid dynasty. Ismail Samani's professional life was defined by his successful governance, military prowess, and efforts to strengthen the Islamic identity of his realm. His legacy as a ruler is characterized by his contributions to the growth and stability of the Samanid domain.

Ahmad Qavam, also known as Qavam os-Saltaneh, was an Iranian politician who held the position of Prime Minister of Iran five times during his career. Known for his political acumen and ability to navigate complex situations, Qavam played a significant role in shaping Iran's political landscape during the early to mid-20th century. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by both successes and challenges, as he worked to address various domestic and international issues facing the country at the time.

Ali Reza Pahlavi was involved in various professional endeavors throughout his life. He pursued studies in History at Harvard University and was interested in writing and photography. He also served in the Iranian Air Force and worked on humanitarian causes, advocating for democracy and human rights in Iran. Additionally, he was involved in cultural and artistic activities, promoting Persian heritage and arts. Overall, Ali Reza Pahlavi's professional life reflected his dedication to education, creativity, and social justice.

Hushang Ansary is an Iranian-American figure with a diverse professional background. He has served in various capacities within the Iranian government, including as Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance and Iran's Ambassador to the United States. Additionally, he has held leadership positions in companies based in both Iran and the United States. However, in 2021, he faced legal issues when he was convicted, along with his daughter and others, for involvement in defrauding policyholders of a Dutch Caribbean insurer of over $500 million.

Maryam Namazie is a prominent British-Iranian secularist, communist, and human rights activist known for her advocacy work in various organizations. She serves as the Spokesperson for Fitnah – Movement for Women’s Liberation, One Law for All, and the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain. Namazie is recognized for her outspoken stance against Islam and Islamism, as well as her defense of the right to apostasy and blasphemy. As a commentator and broadcaster, she actively engages in discussions surrounding these issues and works to promote women's rights and freedom of expression.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini was a prominent Iranian Islamic revolutionary, politician, and religious leader who founded the Islamic Republic of Iran. He served as the first supreme leader of Iran from 1979 until his death in 1989, leading the Iranian Revolution that overthrew the monarchy. Khomeini was a high-ranking cleric in Twelver Shi'ism, an ayatollah, a marja', a Mujtahid, and an expert in sharia law. He authored over 40 books and was internationally recognized for his influence on Islamic politics and his opposition to Western powers.

Mostafa Chamran Save'ei was an Iranian physicist, politician, and commander known for his significant contributions during the Iran-Iraq War. He served as the first defense minister of post-revolutionary Iran, a member of parliament, and the commander of paramilitary volunteers. Chamran played a crucial role in organizing and leading the Irregular Warfare Headquarters, demonstrating his strategic military skills. His dedication to defending Iran's interests and his leadership in the face of adversity made him a respected figure before his tragic death during the war.

Hossein Fatemi was an Iranian scholar and a close associate of Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh. He proposed the nationalization of Iranian oil and gas assets, transitioning from a journalist to serving as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1951 to 1953. Following the 1953 coup d'état that overthrew Mosaddegh's government, Fatemi was arrested, tortured, and convicted of "treason against the Shah" by a military court. He was subsequently executed by a firing squad.

Hamid Kohram was an Iranian politician and veterinarian known for his service as a member of the Iranian Parliament representing Ahwaz from 2000 to 2004. He also held the position of Director General of Scholarships Office and Student Exchange at the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology. Notably, during the 2017 presidential election, Kohram played a key role as the head of Hassan Rouhani's campaign in Khuzestan province. Kohram passed away from COVID-19 in 2020 at the age of 61 or 62.

Aga Khan I, also known as Hasan Ali Shah, was the 46th imam of the Nizari Isma'ilis. He served as the governor of Kirman and was a significant figure in Iran and later in the Indian subcontinent. He was the first Nizari imam to hold the title Aga Khan. His professional life was marked by leadership, governance, and prominence in both political and religious spheres, establishing his legacy as a respected and influential figure within the Isma'ili community.

Mehdi Bazargan was a prominent Iranian scholar and academic, known for his pro-democracy activism and leadership during the Iranian Revolution of 1979. He served as the head of Iran's interim government, becoming the country's first prime minister post-revolution. Bazargan played a key role in establishing the engineering department at the University of Tehran. Despite his significant contributions, he resigned from his position due to the U.S. Embassy takeover, citing his government's failure to prevent the incident.

Masoud Barzani is a prominent Kurdish politician known for his longstanding leadership in the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). He assumed the leadership role in 1979 and has been a key figure in Kurdish politics ever since. Barzani's influence extended to the international stage during his tenure as President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from 2005 to 2017. His political career has been marked by efforts to promote Kurdish interests and secure autonomy for the Kurdistan Region within Iraq.

Abolhassan Banisadr was an Iranian politician, writer, and political dissident. He served as the first president of Iran following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, until his impeachment in 1981. Prior to his presidency, Banisadr held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Interim Government. He co-founded the National Council of Resistance of Iran during his time in France. After fleeing Iran, Banisadr continued his political activities through writings, focusing on his experiences during the revolution and criticizing the Iranian government, particularly Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the handling of the 2009 elections.

Mohammad-Taqi Bahar, known as Malek osh-Sho'arā, was a prominent Iranian poet, scholar, politician, journalist, historian, and Professor of Literature. His work was characterized by traditional poetic forms and a strong sense of nationalism. Bahar made significant contributions to literature through his poetry and academic endeavors. He held various roles in academia and journalism, influencing many through his writing and teaching. His legacy in Persian literature and history continues to be celebrated and studied by scholars and enthusiasts.

Masoumeh Ebtekar is an Iranian reformist politician and academic. She has served in various high-ranking positions, including as Vice President of Iran for Women and Family Affairs, head of the Department of Environment, and head of the Environment Protection Organization of Iran. Ebtekar made history as the first female member of the Iranian cabinet since 1979. She is also a full professor at Tarbiat Modares University in the School of Medical Sciences, Immunology Department. Throughout her career, she has been involved in environmental protection and government administration.

Moshe Katsav was an Israeli politician and the eighth President of Israel, serving from 2000 to 2007. Prior to his presidency, he was a prominent Likud member of the Israeli Knesset and held ministerial positions in the cabinet. Katsav made history as the first Mizrahi Jew to be elected president. However, his tenure ended in controversy due to allegations of rape and sexual harassment, leading to his resignation in 2007 as part of a plea bargain. He was later convicted of rape and obstruction of justice, serving a seven-year prison sentence.

Ardashir II, a Sasanian King of Kings, ruled Iran from 379 to 383. Prior to his reign, he served as vassal king of Adiabene under his brother, Shapur II. Ardashir II's appointment as successor was to govern until Shapur III came of age. His reign was relatively uneventful, marked by unsuccessful Sasanian efforts to control Armenia. Known for his strong will, Ardashir II was referred to as "the beneficent" in some historical accounts, reflecting his perceived character traits.

Mohammad Khatami is an Iranian reformist politician who served as the fifth president of Iran from 1997 to 2005. He also held the position of Iran's Minister of Culture from 1982 to 1992. Khatami gained international attention during his presidency for advocating liberalization, reform, and the concept of Dialogue Among Civilizations in response to Samuel P. Huntington's theory of a Clash of Civilizations. He promoted freedom of expression, tolerance, civil society, diplomatic relations, a free market economy, and foreign investment during his two terms as president.

Mir-Hossein Mousavi Khameneh is an Iranian reformist politician, artist, and architect. He served as the 45th and last Prime Minister of Iran from 1981 to 1989. Mousavi was the editor-in-chief of Jomhouri-e Eslami and later held positions as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Prime Minister. He withdrew from active participation but remained a member of the Expediency Discernment Council and the Supreme Council of Cultural Revolution. Mousavi re-entered politics in the 2009 presidential election as a Reformist candidate, leading the opposition post-election. He continues to be a key figure in the Green Movement despite being under house arrest.

Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani was an influential Iranian politician and writer who served as the fourth president of Iran from 1989 to 1997. He held various key positions in the government, including Speaker of Parliament, Commander-in-Chief during the Iran-Iraq War, and Chairman of the Expediency Discernment Council. Rafsanjani played a significant role in the Iranian political landscape for over 40 years, advocating for a pragmatic approach to governance, supporting privatization of state-owned industries, and promoting moderate international relations to avoid conflict with the United States and the West.

Hossein Rezazadeh is an Iranian politician and retired weightlifter with a remarkable professional career. He is a two-time Olympic champion, four-time World Weightlifting champion, and five-time Asian champion. Rezazadeh has been awarded the Iran Sportsperson of the Year title four times, setting a record in the country's sports history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest weightlifters of all time, Rezazadeh's achievements and dominance in the sport have solidified his legacy as an icon in weightlifting.

Ali Razmara, also known as Haj Ali Razmara, was a prominent military leader and politician in Iran. He served as the country's Prime Minister and was known for his strong leadership and dedication to advancing Iran's interests. Razmara played a key role in the military and political spheres, overseeing various important initiatives and reforms during his tenure. His assassination marked a tragic end to a career marked by service and commitment to his country.

Maryam Rajavi is an Iranian dissident politician and leader of the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK). She advocates for the overthrow of the Iranian government and serves as the president-elect of its National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). With a strong dedication to political activism, she plays a crucial role in leading MEK's efforts in challenging the Iranian regime. Alongside her husband, Massoud Rajavi, she has been actively involved in promoting the organization's agenda and advocating for change in Iran.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is an Iranian politician who served as the sixth president of Iran from 2005 to 2013. He is currently a member of the Expediency Discernment Council. Known for his hardline views, he led the Alliance of Builders of Islamic Iran and served as Tehran's mayor from 2003 to 2005. Ahmadinejad's presidency was marked by controversy, including economic policies and human rights concerns. He faced domestic power struggles and disputes over elections, as well as international criticism for his stance on various countries and support for Iran's nuclear program.

Sayyid Ahmad Khomeini played a significant role as a key figure in the Iranian Revolution and the post-revolutionary period. He served as a crucial intermediary between Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and various officials and the public. Ahmad Khomeini held multiple decision-making positions, contributing to the governance and leadership of the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran. His expertise and close relationship with his father made him an invaluable asset in shaping political strategies and policies during a critical period in Iranian history.

Grand Ayatollah Hussein-Ali Montazeri was an influential Iranian Shia Islamic theologian, Islamic democracy advocate, writer, and human rights activist. He played a significant role in the Iranian Revolution and was once designated as the successor to Ayatollah Khomeini. However, he later fell out with Khomeini over government policies that he believed infringed on people's freedoms. Montazeri was known for his criticism of the Islamic Republic's policies, advocacy for human rights, including Baháʼí rights, civil rights, and women's rights, and his prolific writing on various topics related to Islamic statehood.

Cyaxares, the third king of the Medes, rose to power in 625 BCE following his father's demise in battle against the Assyrians. He strategically allied with the Babylonians to dismantle the Assyrian Empire and successfully united various Iranian groups within ancient Iran. Through his leadership, Media emerged as a prominent regional force, with Cyaxares playing a pivotal role in transforming the kingdom into a powerful entity. His collaborations and military strategies solidified his reputation as a skilled and influential ruler in the region.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is an Iranian conservative politician, former military officer, and the current Speaker of the Parliament of Iran. He has held various high-ranking positions, including Mayor of Tehran, Chief of Police, and commander of the Revolutionary Guards' Air Force. Ghalibaf is a Ph.D. holder in political geography, a certified pilot, and has had a distinguished military career. He is also a professor at the University of Tehran and a perennial candidate in presidential elections, running in 2005, 2013, and 2024.

Megabyzus was an Achaemenid Persian general known for his role in recapturing Babylonia after his father's death during a rebellion. He participated in the Second Persian invasion of Greece and was noted for his refusal to pillage Delphi, as claimed by Herodotus. Megabyzus was a skilled military leader who played a significant role in maintaining Persian control over Babylonia and participating in key military campaigns during his time.

Mohsen Rezaee Mirgha'ed is an Iranian conservative politician and senior military officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He has held various key positions including being a member of the Expediency Discernment Council, secretary of the Supreme Council for Economic Coordination, and secretary of the Iranian government's Economic Committee. Rezaee served as commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps from 1980 to 1997. He has run for president multiple times, finishing third in 2009 and fourth in 2013. In 2021, he was the runner-up in the presidential election.

Mohammad Reza Rahimi is an Iranian politician with a background in various governmental roles. He notably served as the fifth first vice president of Iran from 2009 to 2013. Prior to this position, he held roles such as governor of the Kurdistan province and vice president for parliamentary affairs. Rahimi's career took a controversial turn when he was convicted of corruption in 2015 and subsequently imprisoned at Evin Prison. He was reportedly associated with the "Fatemi Circle," further adding to his professional legacy.

Hassan Rouhani is an Iranian Islamist politician, sharia lawyer, academic, former diplomat, and Islamic cleric. He served as the seventh president of Iran from 2013 to 2021, during which he focused on restoring the economy, improving relations with Western nations, and supporting civil rights. Rouhani has been a member of various governmental bodies, including the Assembly of Experts and the Supreme National Security Council. He is known for his centrist and reformist policies, advocating for personal freedom, women's rights, and improved diplomatic relations with other countries.

Qasem Soleimani was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and commanded the Quds Force from 1998 until his assassination in 2020. He was known for his role in extraterritorial and clandestine military operations, particularly in the Syrian Civil War with Russian intervention. Soleimani was considered a key figure in the Middle East, skilled in asymmetric warfare. He was sanctioned by the UN and EU for attacks against foreign targets and designated a terrorist by the US. His assassination in 2020 led to retaliatory missile strikes by Iran.

Rashid al-Din Hamadani was a prominent figure in the Ilkhanate court, serving as a high official and historian. He was commissioned by Ghazan to write the Jāmiʿ al-Tawārīkh, a comprehensive history spanning from the time of Adam to his own era. Rashid was assisted by Bolad, a Mongol nobleman, in gathering information about the Mongols. He was known for his meticulous work at the elaborate scriptorium Rab'-e Rashidi in Qazvin, overseeing a team of calligraphers and illustrators. Rashid's legacy includes documenting cultural mixing and influencing subsequent empires.

Mahmud Gawan, a Persian statesman, served as the chief minister and de facto ruler of the Bahmani Sultanate. He was appointed a high-ranking noble and later Chief Minister by Sultan Alau'd-din Ahmad Shah. Known for his expertise in Islamic theology, Persian, and the sciences, as well as his skills as a poet and prose writer, Mahmud led successful campaigns against neighboring empires. Under his rule, the Bahmani Sultanate expanded significantly, and he is recognized for constructing the Mahmud Gawan Madrasa, a renowned center of religious and secular learning in Bidar.

Reza Pahlavi, Crown Prince of Iran, was the last heir apparent to the throne before the Islamic Revolution in 1979. He is the founder and leader of the National Council of Iran, an exiled opposition group, actively participating in the Iranian democracy movement. Pahlavi is a notable critic of Iran's Islamic Republic government, advocating for democratic reforms and human rights in his homeland. Currently residing in Great Falls, Virginia, he continues to play a significant role in advocating for change in Iran.

Mohammed Sadeq Givi Khalkhali was an Iranian Shia cleric known for his role as Chief Justice of the revolutionary courts. He gained a reputation as Iran's "hanging judge" due to his enthusiasm for summary executions. Khalkhali's professional demeanor was characterized by a small, rotund stature, pointed beard, kindly smile, and high-pitched giggle. His approach to justice was often met with controversy, as he oversaw a number of executions during his tenure, earning him a notorious legacy in Iran's legal system.

Sayyed Mohammad Hosseini Beheshti was an influential Iranian jurist, philosopher, cleric, and politician. He played a crucial role in shaping Iran's post-revolution constitution and administrative structure. Beheshti was known for his mentorship of prominent politicians in the Islamic Republic, including former presidents Hassan Rouhani and Mohammad Khatami. He held key positions such as Secretary General of the Islamic Republic Party, head of the Iranian judicial system, Chairman of the Council of Islamic Revolution, and the Assembly of Experts. Beheshti was highly educated, holding a PhD in philosophy and proficient in multiple languages. His career was tragically cut short by his assassination in the Hafte tir bombing in 1981.

Sayyid Mohammad Mirmohammadi was an influential Iranian conservative and principlist politician with a prominent career in politics. He served as the senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and was a member of the Expediency Discernment Council. Mirmohammadi was a key figure in the Iranian parliament, holding positions in the 6th and 7th terms. Additionally, he played crucial roles within political parties and as a presidential chief of staff. His expertise and leadership were widely recognized before his unfortunate passing from COVID-19.

Pharnabazus II was a Persian soldier and statesman who served as the Satrap of Hellespontine Phrygia. He belonged to the Pharnacid dynasty and had been governing the region since 478 BC. Pharnabazus II married Apama, daughter of Artaxerxes II, and had a son named Artabazus who also became a satrap. He played a significant role in Persian politics and military affairs, with his granddaughter Barsine potentially becoming Alexander the Great's concubine. His lineage traced back to Otanes, one of the conspirators in the murder of Smerdis.

Mehdi Karroubi is an Iranian Shia cleric and reformist politician, known for leading the National Trust Party. He served as the speaker of the parliament from 1989 to 1992 and 2000 to 2004. A presidential candidate in the 2005 and 2009 elections, he is considered a moderate with a primarily rural support base. Karroubi is a founding member of the Association of Combatant Clerics party and a key figure in the Iranian Green Movement. He has been critical of the Guardian Council and Iran's Judicial System, and has held positions in the Expediency Discernment Council.

Sadegh Ghotbzadeh was an Iranian politician known for his close association with Ayatollah Khomeini during the Iranian Revolution. He served as a key aide to Khomeini during his exile in France and later became the foreign minister during the Iran hostage crisis. Ghotbzadeh was executed in 1982 on charges of plotting to assassinate Ayatollah Khomeini and overthrow the Islamic Republic. His professional life was marked by his important roles in the government during a turbulent period in Iran's history.

Jafar Sharif-Imami was an Iranian politician who served as prime minister in two separate terms, from 1960 to 1961 and again in 1978. Throughout his career, he held various significant positions including cabinet minister, president of the Iranian Senate, president of the Pahlavi Foundation, and president of the Iran chamber of industries and mines during the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Imami's professional life was marked by his involvement in key governmental and industrial roles, showcasing his expertise and leadership abilities.

Seyyed Zia al-Din Tabataba'i Yazdi was an Iranian journalist and pro-Constitution politician who played a significant role in Iranian politics during the early 20th century. He collaborated with Reza Shah to orchestrate the 1921 Persian coup d'état, aiming to reform the Qajar rule that was facing domestic turmoil and foreign intervention. As a result of his efforts, he later served as the 13th Prime Minister of Persia (Iran), where he continued to advocate for political and social reforms in the country.

Seyyed Hadi Khosroshahi was an Iranian cleric and diplomat known for his significant contributions in the realm of international relations. Serving as Iran's inaugural ambassador to the Vatican, he played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic ties between Iran and the Holy See. With a deep understanding of both religious and diplomatic nuances, Khosroshahi navigated complex political landscapes to promote dialogue and cooperation between the two entities. His professional legacy is characterized by a commitment to diplomacy, bridge-building, and mutual understanding.

Tissaphernes was a Persian commander and statesman, serving as the Satrap of Lydia and Ionia. He is known for his role in the power struggles during the Peloponnesian War, as documented by Thucydides and Xenophon. Tissaphernes was a key figure in Persian relations with the Greek city-states, often playing a complex diplomatic game to advance Persian interests. His actions were marked by a mix of cunning strategy and shifting alliances, making him a significant player in the political landscape of the time.

Artabanus I was the king of the Parthian Empire, ruling briefly from around 127 to 124/3 BC. His reign was cut short by his death during a battle against the Yuezhi in the east. Despite his short time in power, Artabanus I left a mark on Parthian history with his leadership during this conflict. His son, Mithridates II, succeeded him as the ruler of the Parthian Empire after his untimely demise.

Fatemeh Rahbar was an accomplished Iranian conservative politician who served multiple terms as a member of the Iranian Parliament representing various regions. With a background in visual communication and a Ph.D. in strategic management, she also held key positions in organizations related to internet policy. Rahbar was known for her roles as vice president of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO, chair of the Women's Fraction, and chair of the Media and Art Committee during her tenure in parliament. She was respected for her contributions to various committees and her leadership within the government.

Shaykh Haydar was the leader of the Safavid order from 1460 to 1488, succeeding his father Shaykh Junayd. He continued his father's policies and political ambitions, transforming the order into a political movement with a strong Twelver Shi'i influence. Shaykh Haydar instructed his followers to wear scarlet headgear symbolizing The Twelve Imams, leading to them being called Qizilbash. He engaged in conflicts with the Shirvanshahs and the Ak Koyunlu, eventually being defeated and killed in battle in 1488. He was succeeded by his son Soltan-Ali, followed by his younger son Ismail I, who founded the Safavid dynasty.

Mohammad-Javad Bahonar was a prominent Shia Iranian theologian and politician. He briefly held the position of Prime Minister of Iran in August 1981 before his tragic assassination by Mujahideen-e Khalq along with other members of Mohammad-Ali Rajai's government. Throughout his career, Bahonar made significant contributions to Iranian politics and religious discourse, showcasing his dedication to serving his country. He was respected for his leadership qualities and commitment to his beliefs, leaving a lasting impact on Iran's political landscape.

Sayyid Mohammad Kazem Shariatmadari was an Iranian Grand Ayatollah who advocated for the traditional Shiite belief of keeping clerics separate from political leadership. He was known for his criticism of Supreme Leader Ruhollah Khomeini and publicly denounced the taking of hostages at the US embassy in Tehran. Shariatmadari's professional life was characterized by his commitment to upholding religious principles and maintaining the independence of the clergy from government affairs, reflecting his dedication to preserving the spiritual and moral integrity of the Shiite community.

Mohammad-Reza Rahchamani was an Iranian physician and reformist politician. He represented Sabzevar in the Iranian Parliament from 1984 to 2000, showcasing his dedication to public service. In the early 2000s, he assumed a key role by leading Iran's State Welfare Organization, demonstrating his commitment to social welfare and advocacy for vulnerable populations. Throughout his professional life, Rahchamani's work in both healthcare and politics highlighted his passion for making positive contributions to Iranian society through policy-making and public service.

Massoud Rajavi was an Iranian politician and revolutionary who rose to leadership in the People's Mujahedin of Iran (MEK) in 1979. He played a significant role in the organization, eventually marrying Maryam Rajavi, who became his co-leader. Rajavi resided in France and Iraq after leaving Iran in 1981. His disappearance before the 2003 invasion of Iraq left uncertainty about his fate, with Maryam Rajavi assuming a more prominent role as the public face of the MEK.

Nasser Shabani was an Iranian general and senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He began his military career during the Iran-Iraq War in 1982, where he played a key role in various operations. Shabani was known for his involvement in suppressing the Amol uprising and his contributions to Operation Mersad. He also served as the president of the University of Imam Hussein and was a deputy of the Sar-Allah Headquarters. Shabani gained attention for taking credit for using Houthi rebels to target Saudi oil tankers.

Imad al-Dawla was the founder of the Buyid amirate of Fars and ruled as its amir from 934 to 949. Along with his brothers, he established a powerful triumvirate with control over Ray, Shiraz, and Baghdad. He held a prominent position in the political landscape of the time, wielding influence and power across strategic regions. Imad al-Dawla's leadership and administration were crucial in shaping the Buyid amirate's success and dominance during his reign.

Mirza Reza Kermani was an Iranian activist and follower of Jamal al-Din al-Afghani. He played a significant role in demanding a just rule from the Qajar dynasty, ultimately leading to the assassination of King Nasser-al-Din. Kermani's professional life was characterized by his activism and dedication to advocating for political change in Iran. Despite the controversial nature of his actions, he remains a notable figure in Iranian history for his role in challenging the ruling establishment of his time.

Hashem Bathaie Golpayegani was an Iranian Shia Ayatollah and a representative of the Tehran Province in Iran's Assembly of Experts. He studied at the Qom Seminary and ran in the 2016 Iranian Assembly of Experts election under the People's Experts and the Friends of Moderation electoral list. Golpayegani was known for his strong views, such as claiming that America was the source of the coronavirus due to its economic and military rivalry with China. He gained attention for announcing his COVID-19 infection, claiming to have healed himself using an "Islamic remedy" before ultimately succumbing to the virus.