Dissertation Defense of Ebrahim Bolouki
UNITED STATES INVOLVEMENT IN IRAN'S 1979 REGIME CHANGE;
AN ANALYSIS OF THE CARTER ADMINISTRATION'S ROLE
September 19, 2025
1:00 PM
Abstract:
The dominant narrative surrounding Iran's 1979 revolution portrays it as a genuine uprising by the Iranian people and opposition forces. However, this dissertation challenges that perspective on two fronts. First, it questions whether the event qualifies as a true revolution by examining its characteristics against established theoretical frameworks. Second, it demonstrates the direct involvement of the United States in facilitating the transition of power from the Shah to the new Islamic Republic.
Drawing on over one hundred formerly restricted United States government correspondence, alongside firsthand accounts from Carter administration officials and other American sources, this research unfolds key moments of U.S. engagement with opposition forces, such as General Robert Huyser's mission to Tehran, CIA and embassy contacts with revolutionary leaders, as well as strategic diplomatic maneuvers that ensured a peaceful transition rather than a collapse into prolonged conflict. These findings challenge conventional historiography, revealing a more complex U.S. role in Iran's political transformation.
This research employs a multi-faceted methodological approach, combining analysis of declassified archival documents with an examination of primary sources. Meanwhile the document-based investigation is complemented by a theoretical analysis of revolution, creating a comprehensive framework for the study.
The findings contribute to broader discussions on revolution theory, covert influence in regime changes, and Cold War geopolitics. By exposing the extent of American involvement and questioning the legitimacy of the term "revolution," this study reshapes our understanding of one of the most pivotal moments in the Middle Eastern history. It offers new insights that impact both scholarly debates and political perceptions in Iran and the United States, which influence policymakers, as well as the Iranian and American public's view on the revolution and its true nature.
Committee chair:
Dr Regina Karp (Graduate Program in International Studies), Chair
Dr Francis Adams (Department of Political Science and Geography)
Dr Ingo Heidbrink (Department of History)