Why did Persia change its name to Iran?

Hello, I'm a specialist in historical and cultural studies with a focus on the Middle East. I'm here to provide you with a detailed explanation regarding the name change from Persia to Iran. Persia, a name that has been used for millennia to refer to a region in the Middle East, underwent a significant change in its official name to Iran in the 20th century. This change was not a simple matter of renaming, but rather a reflection of political, cultural, and historical shifts that were taking place in the region. Step 1: The Historical Context The name "Persia" is derived from the Greek word "Persis," which was used to describe the region of ancient Persis, a small area in southwestern Iran that was home to the Persians, an Indo-European people. The Persians eventually established the Achaemenid Empire, which became one of the largest empires in history, spanning from the Balkans to India. The name "Persia" stuck as the term used by the Greeks and later by the Romans and Westerners to refer to the region and its people. **Step 2: The Rise of Nationalism and Identity** The early 20th century was a time of great change for Iran. The country was emerging from a period of foreign influence and was beginning to assert its national identity. There was a growing sense of nationalism among the Iranian people, who were looking to reclaim their ancient heritage and to distinguish themselves from the colonial powers that had dominated the region. **Step 3: The Influence of Language and Culture** The term "Iran" is derived from the Old Persian word "Aryan," which means "of noble descent" or "noble people." It was used by the ancient Persians to refer to themselves and their empire. The use of "Iran" was seen as a way to reconnect with this ancient and noble lineage, and to emphasize the continuity of Iranian culture and civilization. Step 4: The Political Decision In 1935, Reza Shah Pahlavi, the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty, requested that foreign countries refer to the country as "Iran" instead of "Persia." This decision was part of a broader effort to modernize and Westernize Iran, and to assert its independence from foreign influence. The name "Iran" was seen as more inclusive, as it referred to all the ethnic groups within the country, not just the Persians. Step 5: The Role of Diplomacy The Iranian government also recognized the importance of diplomacy in achieving this name change. They made a formal request to countries with which they had diplomatic relations to use the name "Iran." This was a strategic move to gain international recognition and legitimacy for the new name. Step 6: The Nazi Influence Controversy There is a claim that the suggestion for the name change came from the Iranian ambassador to Germany, who was influenced by the Nazis. This claim is controversial and lacks concrete evidence. While it is true that the ambassador may have been influenced by the nationalist ideologies of the time, it is important to note that the decision to change the name was a complex one, influenced by a variety of factors, including Iran's own historical and cultural identity, as well as its political and diplomatic considerations. In conclusion, the change from Persia to Iran was a multifaceted process that reflected Iran's efforts to assert its national identity, reclaim its ancient heritage, and gain international recognition. It was a decision that was deeply rooted in Iran's history, culture, and political aspirations.

In 1935 the Iranian government requested those countries which it had diplomatic relations with, to call Persia "Iran," which is the name of the country in Persian. The suggestion for the change is said to have come from the Iranian ambassador to Germany, who came under the influence of the Nazis.