The Great Powers, and Iran's Social and Political Evolution: A Memoir

This book offers a deeply personal narrative that chronicles the life and experiences of Shireen Hunter, an Iranian woman who came of age during a transformative era in Iran's history. Spanning from the aftermath of World War II to the pivotal 1979 revolution, the book provides a poignant account of the profound impact of these historical events on her life.

Within the backdrop of Iran's 1960s reforms, the book delves into the multifaceted consequences of this period. While these reforms opened doors for Shireen to enter the diplomatic service, they also cast a shadow of adversity over her family. The skewed implementation of land reforms adversely affected small landowners, leading to the impoverishment of her mother and contributing to the internal divisions that ultimately ignited the 1979 revolution.

Beyond her personal journey, the book explores Shireen's immigrant experience in the USA, where she assumed the role of an "ethnic expert" in the volatile arena of Middle East politics. It candidly navigates the challenges she faced in maintaining intellectual integrity while earning a livelihood, shedding light on the precariousness of being on the right side of controversial issues.

While the book does not purport to provide definitive solutions to specific problems, its discussions resonate with contemporary international security and developmental challenges. It offers insights that remain relevant in today's complex global landscape.

With its multifaceted narrative encompassing Iran's social and political history, women's studies, immigrant experiences, and a deeply personal perspective on critical junctures in U.S.-Iranian relations, this book appeals to a diverse readership. It provides a unique window into the "lived" experiences and analytical reflections of an individual who has traversed the intricate intersections of history, identity, and diplomacy, offering invaluable insights into the past and present.