The Lion and The Sun: A Modern History of Iran

Latest Episodes
Book Two – Special Episode: Exiled King
As Iran crowns a new king, Reza Shah is forced into exile. Stripped of power and family, the fallen monarch begins his final chapter in isolation.
Book Two – Ep.10: Abdication
in 1941, Britain and the Soviet Union invade Iran in hopes of a regime change and Reza Shah contemplates abdication.
Book Two – Ep.9: World War II
As the Second World War breaks out, Iran declares neutrality. But Britain and the Soviet Union fear that Reza Shahs ties with Germany could tip the balance of power in the Middle East.
Book Two – Ep.8: The Heir
Groomed for power from childhood, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was more than a prince. He was Reza Shah's guarantee for a successful political project.
Book Two – Ep.7: Unveiling
After his first foreign trip, Reza Shah declares war on Islam and orders women to remove their hijab. Follow us...
Book Two – Ep.6: Triumvirate (2)
Murder, Banishment and Suicide. As Reza Shah's rule becomes more authoritarian, the alliance that put him in power comes to a bitter end.
Book Two – Ep.5: Triumvirate (1)
Behind the Pahlavi dynasty were three politicians who orchestrated Reza Khans rise and shaped his rule. This is the story of their fall.
Book Two – Ep.4: AIOC
A torn-out contract, a paranoid shah, and Iran's most lucrative resource. With Iran's oil deal up for renewal, Reza Shah clashes with the British and grows suspicious of his closest allies.
Book Two – Ep.3: God, Shah, Nation
A new king, a unified nation, and a country on the brink of transformation. As Reza Shah Pahlavi seizes power, he reshapes Iran with relentless ambition, even at the cost of its democracy.
Book Two – Ep.2: Constituent Assembly
In the aftermath of the parliament's vote to abolish the Qajar dynasty, Reza Khan and his team lay the groundwork for his ascension to the throne and his official coronation as the new king.