Persia Turned to Iran: The Complete Story of How Persia Became Iran, What History Says, and Why Persia Had to Change Its Name

In 1935, Persia officially changed its name to Iran — a significant cultural and political shift. This decision was made under the leadership of Reza Shah Pahlavi, whose aim was to reinforce national identity. “Iran” was the name locals had been using for centuries, while “Persia” was the name popularized by Western countries, symbolizing the historical legacy of the Persian Empire. The term “Iran” is derived from the word “Aryan,” directly linking it to the country’s ancient roots. This step was part of a broader effort to modernize the country and instill a unified sense of pride among its citizens. Let’s understand the full story.

Persia: An Ancient External Name

The name “Persia” had been used by Western countries for centuries to refer to Iran. It originated from “Parsa,” a region in southwestern Iran, which became the core of the Persian Empire during the reign of Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE. Although “Parsa” referred to a specific area, Greek historians used it to describe the entire empire, and the term became widespread in Western languages. However, “Persia” was an exonym — a name given by outsiders. Locals, for thousands of years, referred to their land with names such as “Aryanam” (in ancient Iranian), “Iran-zamin” (Land of Iran), or simply “Iran.”

When Did Persia Become Iran?

The official name change from Persia to Iran happened in 1935. This decision was made by Reza Shah Pahlavi, who wanted the world to recognize the country’s true identity, as “Iran” means “Land of the Aryans.”

How the Name Change Happened in 1935

On March 21, 1935, during Nowruz (Iranian New Year), Reza Shah requested all foreign delegates to use the word “Iran” in official correspondence instead of “Persia.” Reza Shah Pahlavi came from a modest background. He joined the army and gradually rose to power. In 1921, after a coup, he became the king, ending the Qajar dynasty. He then initiated several major reforms to modernize the country. He believed that his nation was lagging behind Western countries and that the name “Persia” contributed to a perception of weakness, debt, and decline — an image rooted in the era of the Qajar kings. To counter this, he decided to change the name. To him, “Persia” represented the past, while “Iran” was to be the identity of the future — a new national character rooted in glorious history.

Why “Iran”?

The name “Iran” has ancient roots. It is derived from the word “Aryan,” meaning “Land of the Aryans.” This name appears in the sacred Zoroastrian texts, the Avesta. Later, it was also mentioned in inscriptions from the Achaemenid Empire. During the Sasanian era, the word “Erān” was used for both people and the empire. So when Reza Shah adopted the name “Iran,” he was reconnecting the nation with its authentic historical identity.

Persia and Iran: The Confusion Continued

Although the name was officially changed in 1935, both “Persia” and “Iran” continued to be used. During World War II, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill requested the Iranian government to temporarily resume the use of “Persia” to avoid confusion between “Iran” and “Iraq,” as both were occupied by Allied forces. This request was honored during the war, but after the war, “Iran” returned to official use. Later, in 1959, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi — Reza Shah’s son — announced that both names, “Persia” and “Iran,” could be used officially. The term “Persia” was especially permitted in cultural and historical contexts.

Today: Persia vs Iran

Today, “Iran” is the official name of the country. But “Persia” is still used to refer to its ancient empire, rich history, and cultural heritage. Many Iranians still prefer the name “Persia” as they believe it better represents the country’s glorious past, while “Iran” is more closely tied to its modern, political identity. It is worth noting that on April 1, 1979, when the Islamic Republic was established, the full name of the country became: “Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran” — The Islamic Republic of Iran.

Misunderstandings Around Aryan Identity

In the 19th century, European linguists misunderstood the term “Aryan,” leading to widespread confusion about Iran in the Western world. They assumed “Aryan” referred to a race originating from Northern Europe. This misconception became so influential that even Nazi ideology adopted it. However, in the Iranian context, “Aryan” never referred to race — it symbolized a linguistic and cultural unity. It was a mark of ancient identity and heritage.

Iran’s Cultural and Historical Legacy

Iran has long been a land of invasions and cultural fusion. That’s why it remains one of the top countries in the world for archaeological heritage. Whether it was the Greco-Persian wars, the Arab conquest, or Mongol invasions — every era reshaped Iran. Its ancient buildings, monuments, and art still stand as testaments to its resilience and vitality. Even today, its ancient monuments and artistic legacy reflect how Iran has embraced, adapted, and survived every challenge. The story of Persia — as the West knew it — still lives on.

Ancient Glory of Persia

The history of Persia begins in the 6th century BCE, when Cyrus the Great founded the Achaemenid Empire. It became renowned for its vast territories and efficient administration. This period laid the foundation of Persian identity — a symbol of cultural richness and military strength. Rulers like Darius I and Xerxes immortalized Persia in history. Their bravery, governance, and artistic vision turned Persia into a great empire.

The Name “Persia”: A Western Tradition

The term “Persia” originated from the region called “Parsa” in southwest Iran, where the empire began. Greek historians coined this name, and it later spread in Western usage. In reality, this name was given by outsiders. The locals never called their land “Persia”; they always called it “Iran.” “Iran” is the indigenous name, while “Persia” is the exonym.

Ancient Roots of the Name “Iran”

The word “Iran” is derived from “Airyan,” meaning “Land of the Aryans.” This name was historically used by Iranians to describe themselves, and it appears in their ancient texts and the Zoroastrian religion. “Iran” represents cultural unity, pride, and identity — it’s not just a geographical label but the soul of a millennia-old civilization.

From “Parsa” to “Iran”: More Than a Name Change

The transformation from “Parsa” to “Iran” wasn’t just a nominal change. It was a declaration of cultural pride, civilizational authenticity, and national independence. Today, Iran continues to walk forward carrying both its ancient legacy and modern nation-state identity.