Although Iran achieved impressive rates of economic growth
and social progress, the shah’s autocratic methods and close
relationship with the West, along with striking and persistent
inequality, alienated large sections of the population. By
1978, domestic unrest had transformed into large-scale religious
and political opposition to the shah. In this context, the
shah increasingly depended on his government security and
intelligence services, which in turn became notorious for violent
repression and abuse. Unrest turned into massive demonstrations
by a diverse set of nationalists, Islamists, Marxists,
and student groups who united in opposition against the
shah. By 1979, the shah had lost his grip on power and opposition
groups led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini merged
together, leading the shah to finally announce his intention
to leave Iran.