Iran Accepts New Constitution in 1979

Name: Iran Accepts New Constitution in 1979
Start: 1979-12-03
Location: Unspecified

The Birth of the Islamic Republic of Iran

1979 Iran Constitution Acceptance

In 1979, a pivotal moment in Iran's history unfolded when the population overwhelmingly accepted a new constitution that marked the official transformation of the country into the Islamic Republic. This constitution, ratified by a public referendum on December 2 and 3, encapsulated the revolutionary changes inspired by the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which saw the overthrow of the Pahlavi monarchy.

Impact of the 1979 Revolution on the Constitution

The Iranian Revolution was not merely a political shift; it was a profound societal transformation. The new constitution provided a framework based on Islamic principles and set forth the concepts of justice, democracy, and the role of religion in governance. This was emblematic of the revolution's leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini's vision for Iran.

Key Features of the 1979 Constitution

Structure of the Islamic Republic

The constitution created a unique system where authority was vested in both the Supreme Leader and elected representatives. The Supreme Leader held vast powers, overshadowing the elected officials. This system was designed to ensure that Islamic law guided governance while also providing some degree of public input through electoral processes.

Rights and Responsibilities in the New Constitution

The 1979 constitution guaranteed numerous rights such as freedom of expression and assembly; however, these rights were subject to the principles of Islam. The potential for governmental intervention in civic matters marked a significant pitch in defining the *new social contract* in Iran, as leaders aimed to stabilize the post-revolutionary environment.

Fun Fact

The Referendum Surpassed Expectations

Interestingly, the voter turnout for the constitutional referendum was around 98.2%, with an overwhelming 99.5% voting in favor, showcasing the public's enthusiasm for *creating a new political order* based on Islamic tenets.