The Lion and The Sun: A Modern History of Iran

2025 Signal Award Winner: Best History Podcast Iran’s history has been a never-ending struggle for liberty and independence. In this podcast, we tell the story of how Iran ended up where it is now and how religion, monarchy, democracy, and nati

Listen to latest episode

The Lion and The Sun: A Modern History of Iran Cover Art

Follow Our Podcast

Recent Episodes

Book Two – Ep.5: Triumvirate (1)

Posted March 26, 202500:27:15

Behind the Pahlavi dynasty were three politicians: the kingmakers who orchestrated Reza Khan’s rise and shaped his rule. But as Reza Shah tightened...

Book Two – Ep.4: AIOC

Posted March 12, 202500:29:08

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...

Book Two – Ep.3: God, Shah, Nation

Posted February 26, 202500:29:55

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,...

Book Two – Ep.2: Constituent Assembly

Posted February 12, 202500:26:30

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...

Book Two – Ep.1: A New Dynasty

Posted January 29, 202500:28:31

As Iran’s exiled king prepares to return, the parliament grants Prime Minister sweeping powers. With the help of his rivals, Reza Khan sets out to...