When Persia Became Iran: A Nation's Identity Shift

In a significant move that reshaped its international identity, the nation known for centuries as Persia officially adopted the name Iran in 1935. This change was more than a mere linguistic alteration; it was a powerful statement of national identity and a reflection of a broader modernization agenda.

For Westerners, the name Persia often conjures images of ancient empires, magnificent art, and rich literary traditions. Indeed, the historical and cultural legacy associated with Persia is vast and deeply rooted, stretching back millennia to powerful dynasties like the Achaemenids, Parthians, and Sassanians.

The Drive Behind the Change

The formal renaming was initiated by Reza Shah Pahlavi, then the monarch of Iran. His reign was characterized by an ambitious program of modernization, aiming to transform the country into a strong, independent, and modern nation-state. Part of this vision involved strengthening national pride and asserting a distinct identity on the global stage.

The name Iran itself is not new. It derives from the term Ērān, which means 'Land of the Aryans.' This ancient appellation had been used internally by the country's own people for centuries, particularly in historical and literary contexts. However, in diplomatic and international circles, the Hellenized term 'Persia' (derived from the ancient Greek name for the region, Persis) had become prevalent.

More Than Just a Word

Reza Shah's decree to use 'Iran' internationally was multifaceted:

• National Identity: It aimed to emphasize the country's diverse ethnic composition, encompassing more than just the Persian heartland. 'Iran' represented a broader historical and linguistic heritage.
• Modernization: The change was seen as a way to shed outdated, exoticized perceptions associated with 'Persia' and present a modern, progressive nation.
• Self-Determination: It was a symbolic assertion of sovereignty, taking control of how the nation was perceived and named by the rest of the world.

The decree requested that all foreign governments officially refer to the country by its endonym, Iran. While it took some time for the change to be universally adopted in international discourse, it marked a definitive shift.

Persia and Iran Today

Even after 1935, the legacy of 'Persia' continues to resonate. In many cultural contexts, particularly when referring to history, art, and traditions, the term 'Persian' is still widely and appropriately used. We speak of Persian carpets, Persian literature, and Persian cats, highlighting a cultural continuity that transcends political naming conventions.

Today, the official name of the country is the Islamic Republic of Iran. The 1935 decision remains a fascinating example of how a nation can strategically use nomenclature to shape its self-image and its place in the world. It underlines the profound connection between language, history, and national identity, demonstrating that sometimes, a name truly does carry the weight of a nation's aspirations.