Reza Aslan discusses the life of Howard Baskerville, an American hero in Iran during the Persian constitutional revolution. They also explore Woodrow Wilson's influence on education, the rise of the Mullahs in Iran, the origins of an Islamic Republic, and the amorality of foreign policy.
Howard Baskerville's involvement in Iran's democratic revolution illustrates the intersection of religion, politics, and personal beliefs during a time of significant social and political change.
Woodrow Wilson's teachings on democracy and divine will influenced Howard Baskerville, despite Wilson's own racist beliefs and actions, showcasing the potential for democratic ideals to create positive change in the world.
Deep dives
The Life and Legacy of Howard Baskerville
Reza Aslan discusses Howard Baskerville, an American missionary who became a hero in Iran during the Persian constitutional revolution. Baskerville arrived in Iran during the midst of the first democratic revolution in the Middle East. He played a significant role in supporting the revolutionaries and the fight for freedom and democracy. His actions, including providing aid and support to the revolutionary army, ultimately led to his decision to quit his job and join the revolution. Baskerville's story highlights the intersection of religion, politics, and personal beliefs during a time of significant social and political change in Iran.
The Intersection of Woodrow Wilson and Howard Baskerville
Reza Aslan explores the influence of Woodrow Wilson on Howard Baskerville. As Baskerville studied at Princeton, Wilson's teachings and courses had a profound impact on him. Wilson's political philosophy, which merged democracy and divine will, resonated with Baskerville and shaped his views on freedom and political participation. Despite Wilson's own racist beliefs and actions, Baskerville was inspired by his teachings and saw the potential for democratic ideals to create positive change in the world.
The Role of Missionaries in Politics
Reza Aslan examines the conflicting expectations and roles of missionaries in political affairs. Missionaries like Howard Baskerville were often expected to remain neutral and focus solely on matters of faith. However, Baskerville's involvement in the Iranian revolution demonstrated the blurred boundaries between religious mission work and political activism. His decision to join the revolutionary army showcased his belief in the revolutionary cause and his willingness to fight for the freedom and rights of the Iranian people.
Current Relations Between Iran and the US
Reza Aslan provides insights into the complex relations between Iran and the US. He acknowledges the deep animosity and mistrust that has developed between the two countries over the past four decades. While the Iranian people often differentiate between the American government and its people, the political tensions persist. As a result, the Iranian government uses anti-US and anti-Israel rhetoric to maintain some semblance of legitimacy, particularly when facing internal challenges. However, Reza emphasizes that a significant proportion of Iranians are more focused on their daily struggles and the socioeconomic issues within their country, rather than geopolitical conflicts.
Reza’s book, Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth
Reza’s new book, An American Martyr in Persia: The Epic Life and Tragic Death of Howard Baskerville
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