1. Opposition to Western Influence: Throughout the 20th century, Western powers, especially the United States and Britain, had maintained considerable influence over Iran's political and economic affairs, particularly during the regime of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran. This foreign interference and perceived control over Iran's internal matters triggered a nationalist and anti-colonialist reaction among many Iranians. The revolution sought to challenge and overthrow this Western dominance and reassert Iran's sovereignty.
2. Anti-Western Culture: The rapid Westernization of Iranian society in the years leading up to the revolution created societal tension. Western cultural values and lifestyles were increasingly adopted by the wealthy elite and urban populations but clashed with traditional and religious beliefs held by the broader population. The revolution represented a reaction against this erosion of traditional values and aimed to restore Islamic ideals and identity.
3. Anti-Modernization: The process of modernization and secularization led to increased social inequality, economic challenges, and a decline in religious and cultural practices that had been central to Iran's history. The revolution, particularly influenced by Ayatollah Khomeini's ideology of "Velayat-e Faqih" (Rule of the Jurist), promoted a return to Islamic governance and law, challenging Western notions of democracy and governance.
4. Return to Islamic Identity: The revolution was inspired by a desire to revive Iran's pre-modern Islamic heritage. It aimed to replace Western-influenced institutions, laws, and cultural norms with ones rooted in Islamic principles. This represented a rejection of Western conceptions of progress, human rights, and social organization.
5. Cultural Revival: The Iranian Revolution celebrated traditional Persian culture and arts. It sought to reaffirm the country's rich historical heritage and reject cultural influences perceived as decadent and corrupting, which were often associated with the Western lifestyle and values.
6. Slogans and Symbolism: The revolution's rhetoric, slogans, and symbolism often conveyed anti-Western and anti-modernity sentiments. The slogan "Death to America" became a rallying cry, and the burning of American flags and attacks on Western embassies demonstrated the rejection of Western influence.
It's important to note that while the Iranian Revolution aimed to reject Westernization and modernity, it did not seek to entirely disregard technology or progress. Rather, it attempted to blend certain modern advances with Islamic values and principles, creating a unique Iranian identity.