Iran frequently makes headlines due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, but behind its modern identity lies a fascinating historical transformation.
Many still wonder: why was Iran once known as Persia, and when did the name officially change? The answer uncovers centuries of linguistic, cultural, and political evolution that shaped the nation as we know it today.
How ancient is Iranian civilization?
Iran’s roots go back over 2,500 years to the 6th century BCE, when Cyrus the Great founded the Achaemenid Empire. His reign marked the beginning of a powerful civilization that extended its influence across Asia, Europe, and North Africa.
Originating from the region called “Parsa” in today’s southwestern Iran, Cyrus gave rise to a culture that Western historians came to know as “Persian.” Greek and Roman sources popularized the name “Persia,” and it became the standard reference outside of the region.
What name did Iranians use themselves?
Although “Persia” became common internationally, the local population used entirely different terms to refer to their homeland. Words like “Arya” or “Airyan,” found in ancient Zoroastrian scriptures, were more commonly used. These terms meant “Land of the Aryans,” reflecting a broader ethnic and cultural identity that persisted through various dynasties and eras.
Why did the name officially change to “Iran”?
The turning point came in 1935, when Reza Shah Pahlavi, who led Iran from 1925 to 1941, asked foreign governments to adopt the term “Iran” in official documents. This request aligned with how locals already referred to their country and was part of a broader effort to modernize and assert national independence on the world stage.
A British diplomatic communication from the time captured the request:
“On 25 December [1934], the Persian Ministry for Foreign Affairs issued a circular to foreign diplomatic missions in Tehran, requesting that the terms ‘Iran’ and ‘Iranian’ be used in place of ‘Persia’ and ‘Persian’ starting 21 March [1935].”
Was the name “Persia” ever reinstated?
Temporarily, yes. During World War II, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill suggested Iran revert to “Persia” to avoid confusion with Iraq, as the names sounded similar. The Iranian government agreed briefly, but the change didn’t gain traction with American diplomats, who largely continued using “Iran.”
By 1959, after years of inconsistent use, Iranian officials opted for a dual approach: “Iran” would be maintained as the official name in political and diplomatic settings, while “Persia” would continue to refer to the country’s cultural and historical legacy.
In essence, the transition from “Persia” to “Iran” was more than a renaming—it was a strategic decision to reinforce national identity, embrace modernity, and align with indigenous traditions.
While “Persia” still conjures images of a rich imperial past, “Iran” reflects the present-day nation and its evolving global role. Both terms continue to coexist in global awareness, representing the different dimensions of a civilization that bridges ancient glory with modern resilience.