Mossadegh Foundation Library of Iranology
FOUNDATION
Mossadegh Foundation
The Mossadegh Foundation, established in Carouge (Canton of Geneva, Switzerland), is governed by Swiss law. Inaugurated in 2000, it is managed by a secretary under the supervision of a Board of Trustees.
The Foundation is named in honor of the illustrious Iranian Prime Minister, who profoundly influenced the political life of his country during the twentieth century. It is driven by the liberal and democratic spirit that this political leader cherished to ensure Iran’s national sovereignty.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming
Filme – Un Simple Accident
Upcoming
Livre – Oeuvre en prose
Upcoming
Lecture – Constitutional Experience and Travails of Parliamentarism and Governance in 20th Century Iran
Events That Shaped History
Nationalization of Oil
Under Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, Iran's parliament approved the nationalization of the oil industry, ending British control over the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. The decision received overwhelming public support but triggered strong international opposition and economic pressure.
Political Crisis and Power Struggle
Tensions escalated between Mossadegh and Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi over control of the military and executive authority. Iran faced growing political instability, economic sanctions, and deep internal division while Mossadegh sought to preserve national sovereignty.
The Coup d’État (19 August)
A covert operation supported by British and American intelligence agencies overthrew the democratically elected government of Mossadegh (Operation Ajax / TPAJAX). After initial failure, the coup succeeded on 19 August 1953, leading to Mossadegh's arrest and the Shah's return to absolute power.
“The will of the people is stronger than the will of any tyrant” Dr. Mohammad Mossadegh
Dr. Mohammad Mossadegh (1882–1967) was a prominent Iranian politician, author, and lawyer who served as the Prime Minister of Iran. His legacy is closely tied to his administration’s nationalization of the Iranian oil industry and many other significant reforms, and he remains a central figure in the study of modern Iranian and Middle Eastern history and considered as the father of the modern democratic movements.
Dr. Mossadegh’s only known life portrait, by granddaughter Leyly Matine-Daftary
Support the mission of the Foundation
Your generosity will enable the Mossadegh Foundation to continue its efforts in digitizing historical documents, acquiring new books, and funding other academic projects.