Mohammad Ali Shah

Revolution broke out in Persia when the Shah, Muhammad Ali, sought to destroy the constitutional monarchy that he himself had created. Nationalist troops occupied Teheran and forced the Shah to flee. He was replaced by his son, Ahmed Shah.

In 1908, Mohammad Ali Shah, who had ascended the throne in 1907, sought to abolish the constitution and dissolve the Majlis. He was supported by conservative factions, including some tribal leaders and members of the clergy. Mohammad Ali Shah heavily relied on Russian and British support, as well as the Persian Cossack Brigade, which was led by Russian officers.

In response to these actions, a group of constitutionalists, including various political and social factions, launched a resistance movement in 1909. The movement aimed to defend the constitution, reinstate the rule of law, and uphold the authority of the Majlis.

The struggle culminated in the Siege of Tehran in July 1909. Forces loyal to the constitutional cause, primarily the Bakhtiari tribal fighters and other nationalists, defeated the Shah's forces and captured the city. On July 16, 1909, Mohammad Ali Shah was forced to abdicate the throne in favor of his young son, Ahmad Shah, marking the end of the Qajar dynasty's absolute rule in Iran.

The victory of the constitutionalists in 1909 reinforced the authority of the constitution and the Majlis. However, the events also highlighted the deep divisions within Iranian society and the influence of foreign powers, such as Russia and Britain, who played a significant role in Iran's political affairs during this period.