The Great Powers, and Iran's Social and Political Evolution

This book chronicles the life of Shireen Hunter, an Iranian woman who came of age during a transformative era in Iran’s history. It spans the tumultuous aftermath of World War II, the reforms of the 1960s, and the growing dissent of the 1970s, culminating in the 1979 revolution. The book recounts the contradictory impact of reforms on Iran’s social and political evolution, as well as on her life. It also illustrates how great power politics impacted Iran’s evolution and her personal journey. The book explores Shireen’s immigrant experience in the USA, including the challenges she faced as an “ethnic expert” in the controversial field of Middle East politics. It encompasses Iran’s social and political history, women’s studies, and immigrant experiences and offers a personal perspective on critical junctures in U.S.-Iranian relations. It provides a unique window into “lived” experiences and analytical reflections of someone who has traversed the intersections of history, identity, and diplomacy. “Few individuals have Shireen Hunter‘s life experiences, as Iran’s first female career diplomat serving abroad and as a distinguished scholar living in the United States. This memoir captures the rich texture of life and politics in Iran and places her life’s journey within the context of Iranian history, politics, and its relations with the United States. This is a work of tremendous value that only a scholar and diplomat like Shireen Hunter could offer.” Mehran Kamrava, Georgetown University, Qatar “This book is a thoughtful analysis and meditation on Iran’s modern history, politics and society. Drawing on her rich life as diplomat, scholar and public intellectual, Shireen Hunter guides us through events that have shaped modern Iran’s social and political evolution. This is a real gem full of sober reflections, fresh insights and bold recommendations. Must read for students of Iran and the Middle East.” Nader Hashemi, Georgetown University Shireen T. Hunter has more than fifty years of experience in international affairs, as diplomat, think tank analyst, and university professor.