The Modern Period

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SAVAK

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The Modern Period

Definition

SAVAK was the secret police and intelligence service of Iran, established in 1957 under the regime of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi. Its primary function was to suppress dissent, monitor opposition groups, and maintain the political status quo in Iran. SAVAK became notorious for its use of brutal tactics, including torture and surveillance, to stifle any challenges to the Shah's authority leading up to the Iranian Revolution.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. SAVAK was founded with assistance from the CIA and Mossad, reflecting international involvement in Iranian internal security matters during the Cold War.
  2. The organization was heavily involved in monitoring political activists, intellectuals, and anyone perceived as a threat to the Shahโ€™s rule.
  3. SAVAK's reputation for brutality led to widespread fear among the population, contributing to a culture of silence around dissenting opinions.
  4. As discontent grew in Iran during the late 1970s, SAVAK faced increasing opposition, particularly from leftist groups and religious activists.
  5. After the Iranian Revolution in 1979, SAVAK was disbanded and many of its members were prosecuted for human rights violations.

Review Questions

  • How did SAVAK contribute to the political climate in Iran prior to the Iranian Revolution?
    • SAVAK played a crucial role in shaping the political climate in Iran by suppressing dissent and instilling fear among the population. Its surveillance and torture tactics targeted activists, intellectuals, and any perceived opponents of the Shah's regime. This oppressive environment ultimately fueled public discontent and resistance movements that culminated in the Iranian Revolution.
  • Discuss the international influences on the formation and operations of SAVAK during its existence.
    • SAVAK was significantly influenced by international powers, particularly the United States and Israel, who provided training and support for its establishment. The CIA and Mossad helped develop SAVAK into an effective intelligence service aimed at preventing communism and maintaining stability for the Shah. This foreign backing not only shaped its operational strategies but also contributed to its notorious reputation for brutality as it adopted similar tactics used by Western intelligence agencies.
  • Evaluate the legacy of SAVAK on contemporary Iranian society and governance post-revolution.
    • The legacy of SAVAK continues to impact contemporary Iranian society and governance as it left behind a history of repression that still resonates with citizens today. The methods employed by SAVAK have created a deep-seated mistrust towards state institutions among Iranians. This atmosphere has influenced how current authorities handle dissent and maintain control, often recalling SAVAK's strategies in their efforts to suppress opposition while navigating the complexities of modern Iranian politics.

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