American Cultural and Social Activities in Iran in the Pahlavi Period (The case of Isfahan)

This paper explores the policies and purposes of half a century of cultural and social activities of Americans in Iran, from around 1925 to 1979. Methodology and Research Design: A descriptive-analysis research method was used based on documents, library, press resources and interviews. Findings and Conclusion: Activities were driven by the political interests of the United States. Promotion of American values and life style as an ideal model was pursued consistently under the cover of cultural, social, and anthropological programs for enhancing political influence. Isfahan, as an industrial and business hub of Iran, was at the center of the interest. Enjoying judicial immunity, some of the American officials engaged in activities that lead to outrage among the public.