Ali Ansari

Join Tom Holland and guest Ali Ansari, a renowned Professor of Iranian Studies, as they dive into the captivating world of history's most influential mistresses. They discuss how these women, often starting from humble beginnings, shaped political landscapes, with figures like Cleopatra and Emma Hamilton taking center stage. The conversation highlights the societal perceptions of these relationships, including Nell Gwynn's rise from orange seller to royal mistress. Ansari illustrates how these powerful women navigated patriarchal structures to leave their mark on history.

Ali Ansari, a Professor of Iranian Studies at the University of St. Andrews and a modern Iranian history expert, unveils the tumultuous history of Iran under the Pahlavi dynasty. He discusses Reza Shah's modernization efforts and the influence of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, highlighting foreign interference during World War II. The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by his son, Mohammad Reza Shah, including the 1953 CIA-backed coup against Mossadegh, illustrating the complexities of nationalism and foreign power dynamics in Iran.

In this insightful discussion, Ali Ansari, a Professor of Iranian Studies at the University of St. Andrews, unpacks the tumultuous era leading to the Iranian Revolution. He highlights the stark economic disparities exacerbated by the Shah's modernization efforts and rampant inflation. The rise of Ayatollah Khomeini as a voice for the discontented masses is examined, revealing how his vision clashed with the entrenched elite. Attention is also drawn to the opulent 2,500-year celebration of the Persian Empire, which starkly illustrated the disconnect fueling revolutionary fervor.

Join Professor Ali Ansari, an expert in Persian history from St. Andrews University, as he dives deep into the rich legacy of ancient Persia. Discover the civilization's invaluable contributions to Western culture and concepts like duality in religion, rooted in Zoroastrianism. Ansari sheds light on influential figures like Cyrus the Great and the resilience of Persian identity despite political upheaval. The discussion also touches on Persia’s advanced irrigation systems and cultural nuances that shaped the modern world.

Ali Ansari, a Professor of Modern History at St Andrews and an expert on Iranian history, dives into Iran's turbulent past. He discusses the 1906 Constitutional Revolution's liberal aspirations and the subsequent rise of Reza Shah amidst chaos. The conversation reveals how foreign powers exploited Iran, igniting public dissent and awakening political consciousness. Ansari also highlights the Pahlavi dynasty's role in shaping modern Iran, illustrating the complex interplay between modernization, authority, and ongoing foreign influence.