Imam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, was born on September 24, 1902 (Shahrivar 24, 1281 in the Iranian calendar) in the city of Khomein. His real name was Ruhollah, and he was born into a religious and clerical family. His father, Ayatollah Seyyed Mustafa Mousavi, was a prominent cleric of the time, and his mother, Hajer, placed great importance on raising her children and teaching them religious principles.


Imam Khomeini's childhood was spent in a religious and cultural environment. From a young age, he began studying religious sciences and received education under the guidance of prominent scholars of his time, including Ayatollah Borujerdi. He quickly advanced in understanding deep religious and philosophical concepts and was recognized as a talented student.


During his childhood, he was interested in reading religious and philosophical books, and this interest gradually contributed to the formation of his personality and thought. Imam Khomeini paid attention to social and political issues from a young age and engaged in critiquing the social and cultural conditions of his community.


The religious and cultural upbringing he received in his family and community had a profound impact on his political and social views in the future. These foundations later helped him to be recognized as a religious and political leader in Iran and to play a significant role in the historical transformations of the country.

The youth of Imam Khomeini, Ruhollah Mousavi, as one of the prominent figures in contemporary Iranian history, was marked by deep religious and ethical education. At a young age, he went to the Qom seminary and studied religious sciences under the guidance of great scholars, particularly Ayatollah Borujerdi. Imam Khomeini quickly advanced in understanding complex concepts of jurisprudence, religious principles, and Islamic philosophy, and he was recognized as a talented student.


His ethics during his youth were shaped by Islamic teachings and his family upbringing. He valued honesty, fairness, and respect for others, and these traits were evident in his behavior and interactions with people. Imam Khomeini was also interested in studying and researching various scientific and social fields, which helped him analyze social and political issues.


During this period, he engaged in critical thinking and deep analysis of the social and political issues of his community, paying attention to the existing conditions and social inequalities. These characteristics and perspectives later contributed to the formation of his political views and introduced him as a religious and political leader in Iran.


In his youth, Imam Khomeini adhered to ethical and human principles, and these principles were reflected throughout his life, including in his political and social struggles. He is recognized as a role model for future generations and left a profound impact on the contemporary history of Iran.

Imam Khomeini's struggles against the Pahlavi regime began in the mid-1960s. Through his issued statements and speeches, he depicted the people's dissatisfaction with the political and social conditions of the country. In 1961, Imam Khomeini gained significant attention due to his opposition to land reforms and the Western-oriented policies of the Shah, leading him to publish his first protest statements.


In 1963, after his famous speech in Qom, Imam Khomeini was arrested and imprisoned. This action by the regime sparked widespread anger and discontent among the people, resulting in large-scale protests. After his release, he continued his activities and called on the people to resist the regime through numerous statements.


In 1964, due to the regime's pressures, Imam Khomeini was exiled to Turkey. His exile did not halt the struggle; rather, it expanded the scope of protests within the country. Even in exile, he continued to issue statements and letters, using media to convey his messages to the Iranian people.


As the 1970s progressed, the struggle against the Pahlavi regime intensified, and Imam Khomeini emerged as the main leader of the movement. In 1979, with rising discontent and public protests, the Pahlavi regime gradually weakened. Finally, on February 11, 1979, the Islamic Revolution triumphed, and Imam Khomeini returned to Iran as the leader of the revolution. This victory not only marked a turning point in Iranian history but also inspired liberation movements in other countries.

The victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran on February 11, 1979, marked a turning point in contemporary Iranian and world history. Imam Khomeini, as the leader of this revolution, was able to unite the people and call them to fight against the Pahlavi regime by relying on Islamic principles and human values. He emphasized independence and freedom, introducing the slogan "Neither East nor West, an Islamic Republic," which became one of the fundamental principles of the revolution.


Imam Khomeini strongly criticized the policies of both the West and the East. He particularly objected to American influence in Iran and the Pahlavi regime's dependence on foreign powers. He believed that these dependencies led to corruption and inequality in society, depriving people of their rights. Additionally, he criticized the Eastern bloc and communism, emphasizing the need to preserve Islamic and national identity.


During the revolution, Imam Khomeini conveyed his messages to the people through media and statements, encouraging them to fight against oppression and corruption. He believed that the Islamic Revolution could serve as a model for other nations, demonstrating that they could rise against tyranny and despotism.


The victory of the Islamic Revolution not only led to a change in the political system in Iran but also had profound effects on regional and global developments. Through his leadership, Imam Khomeini established a new system and introduced new ideas in the realms of politics and society that continue to be of interest in many countries. This revolution is recognized as a symbol of resistance and independence against great powers.

Imam Khomeini, as one of the influential figures of the twentieth century, has drawn various opinions from prominent global leaders and thinkers. Many leaders and intellectuals have pointed to his impact on political and social transformations in Iran and the world.


Martin Luther King Jr., the American civil rights leader, highlighted the influence of the Islamic Revolution on freedom movements worldwide, viewing it as a sign of the power of people in their struggle for rights. He believed that Imam Khomeini had inspired new generations of freedom fighters.


On the other hand, Nelson Mandela, the leader of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, also referred to Imam Khomeini's role in the political awakening of nations. He emphasized that the Islamic Revolution in Iran demonstrated to other nations that they could rise against oppression and seek freedom and justice.


Political figures like Hubert Humphrey, former Vice President of the United States, noted Imam Khomeini's influence on global policies and changes in the Middle East. He believed that through his leadership, Imam Khomeini not only changed the political system in Iran but also sparked broader transformations in the region.


Globally, many analysts and researchers have examined the impact of Imam Khomeini's ideas on Islamic movements and nationalism in various countries. They believe that by emphasizing independence and national identity, Imam Khomeini provided a model for other nations.


Overall, the opinions of global leaders about Imam Khomeini reflect his profound impact on contemporary history and his role as an inspiration for freedom struggles worldwide. These influences continue to be analyzed in political and social discussions, and Imam Khomeini is recognized as a global figure.