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Mohammad Mosaddegh
Prime Minister of Iran (1951-1953)
Democratically elected leader overthrown by CIA/MI6 coup
Overview
Mohammad Mosaddegh was the democratically elected Prime Minister of Iran who nationalized the British-controlled oil industry. In 1953, the CIA and MI6 overthrew him in Operation Ajax, replacing him with the Shah's authoritarian rule. This coup shaped Iranian distrust of the West for generations.
Key Affiliations
Controversies & Concerns
Democratically elected Iranian PM overthrown in CIA/MI6-backed coup (Operation Ajax) in 1953
Nationalized Anglo-Iranian Oil Company which triggered Western-backed regime change
His overthrow installed the Shah whose authoritarian rule ultimately led to the 1979 Islamic Revolution
Related Investigations (1)
Known Associates & Connections
Dwight D. Eisenhower
U.S. President who authorized CIA coup (Operation Ajax) that overthrew Mosaddegh's democratically elected government in 1953
Allen Dulles
CIA Director who orchestrated the 1953 Iranian coup against Mosaddegh
Winston Churchill
British PM who pushed for coup after Mosaddegh nationalized Anglo-Iranian Oil Company
Sources & Documentation
2 documented sources from official records, investigations, and reports
Personal Information
- Born
- June 16, 1882
- Birthplace
- Tehran, Iran
Education
- •Sciences Po, Paris
- •University of Neuchâtel
Key Timeline
June 16, 1882
Born in Tehran
April 28, 1951
Becomes Prime Minister
May 1, 1951
Nationalizes Anglo-Iranian Oil Company
August 19, 1953
Overthrown in CIA/MI6 coup
1953-1956
Imprisoned
1956-1967
House arrest until death
March 5, 1967
Dies under house arrest