Ruhollah Khomeini: A Life of Revolution and Legacy

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Full Name and Common Aliases

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Ruhollah Khomeini was born on September 24, 1902, in the village of Khomeyn, Iran. He is commonly known as Ayatollah Khomeini or Imam Khomeini.

Birth and Death Dates

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Birth Date: September 24, 1902
Death Date: June 3, 1989

Nationality and Profession(s)

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Nationality: Iranian
Profession:
Islamic Cleric
Politician

Early Life and Background

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Ruhollah Khomeini was born into a family of farmers in the village of Khomeyn. His father, Mustafa Khomeini, was a cleric who died when Ruhollah was six years old. After his father's death, Ruhollah moved to Arak with his mother and began attending local schools.

In 1920, at the age of 18, Khomeini traveled to Qom, Iran, to study Islamic law under the renowned cleric Ayatollah Abd al-Karim Haeri Yazdi. He later continued his studies in Najaf, Iraq, where he earned a degree in Islamic jurisprudence.

Major Accomplishments

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During World War II, Khomeini was a vocal critic of British and Soviet influence in Iran. In 1941, the Allies occupied Iran, which led to widespread protests against their presence. The protests ultimately resulted in the abdication of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the pro-British ruler of Iran.

Khomeini's opposition to the monarchy and foreign intervention earned him a significant following among Iranian nationalists and Muslims. In 1963, he was arrested by the government for his involvement in anti-regime protests. This event catapulted Khomeini into national prominence and solidified his position as a leading figure in Iranian politics.

Notable Works or Actions

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Khomeini wrote several books on Islamic law and theology, including Talab al-I'lm (The Quest for Knowledge) and Tawdih al-Masa'il (Clarification of Questions). His most influential work is the book Wilayat-e Faqih, which outlines his vision for an Islamic government.

In 1979, following the Iranian Revolution, Khomeini returned to Iran after nearly 15 years in exile. He was greeted by millions of supporters and became the Supreme Leader of Iran, a position he held until his death in 1989.

Impact and Legacy

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Ayatollah Khomeini's impact on modern history is profound. His vision for an Islamic republic inspired a generation of Muslims worldwide to seek greater autonomy from Western influence. His leadership played a significant role in the Iranian Revolution, which overthrew the monarchy and established the world's first theocratic government.

Khomeini's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While he is remembered as a champion of Islamic revolution and resistance against foreign intervention, his regime has been criticized for its human rights abuses and suppression of dissent.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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Ayatollah Khomeini's quotes continue to be widely referenced due to their significance in the context of Islamic politics and social activism. His statements on issues like resistance against foreign occupation, the importance of piety in governance, and the role of Islam in shaping society remain influential among both supporters and critics.

Throughout his life, Khomeini demonstrated unwavering commitment to his vision for an Islamic government. His impact on Iranian and global politics continues to be felt today, making him one of the most important figures of the 20th century.