American Revolution Of 1979 Dbq Essay

During the American Revolution of 1775-1793, our goal was to separate ourselves from the British Empire. By the end of the American Revolution it was clear our goal had been accomplished; we were no longer part of Britain. However, with some revolutions it can be unclear whether the desired goal was accomplished. One such revolution was the Iranian Revolution of 1979 whose goal was to create a theocracy. A theocracy is defined as a “government of a state by immediate divine guidance or by officials who are regarded as divinely guided.” In colloquial terms, a theocracy is a form of government in which the governmental rulers are indistinguishable from the leaders of the dominant religion. Evidence of the revolution’s success can be measured

According to document D by Hafezi, "...in Islamic Iran, where women are obligated to cover their hair and wear long, loose clothing to disguise their figures and protect their modesty." This is based on descriptions found in the Quran, showing that Iran followed it closely in social aspects after the revolution. Technically, the post-revolution Iranian government became a democracy with elected officials; however, a group of 12 clerics called the Guardian Council gained the real political power. The Guardian Council could simply override any law that it felt did not agree with the principles of Islam.The Guardian Council were appointed rather than elected and were comprised of members of the Shia religious majority. According to document E by Rick Steve, "I asked, 'But what if you want to get somewhere in the military or government?' Seyed answered, 'Then you'd be a Muslim.' I added, 'A practicing Shia Muslim.' He said, 'Yes.'” Iran had created a successful theocracy through political and social aspects, though it has also been concluded that Iran still needs improvement in its economy to become a better theocracy.