From “Solution of the Moslem Problem” to Promoting Modernization: The Evolution of Presbyterian Missionary Activities in Iran, 1925–1953

M. Yu. Surkov

From “Solution of the Moslem Problem” to Promoting Modernization: The Evolution of Presbyterian Missionary Activities in Iran, 1925–1953

M. Yu. Surkov

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Abstract

The article analyses the efforts of Presbyterians to spread Christianity in Iran during the reigns of the monarchs of the Pahlavi dynasty, Reza Shah (1925–1941) and Mohammad Reza Shah (from 1941 until the coup of August 19, 1953). Protestant Presbyterians gained a foothold in Iran under the Qajar dynasty beginning in the 19th century thanks to successful educational and medical projects. The new Pahlavi dynasty and its modernization project presented new opportunities, as well as challenges, for Presbyterians. From the perspective of American missionaries, reforms and Westernization were intended to distance Iranians from Islam and therefore should be supported. Educational projects were expanded: while in the 20th century primary schools predominated, in the 20th century secondary schools became the focus, as Presbyterians hoped to influence the worldview of the children of the Iranian elite. Hospital activities were also subordinated to the goal of expanding the Christian community. However, Reza Shah’s national modernization project envisioned limiting the influence of external actors in Iran, so the Presbyterians’ work faced restrictions. Using archival materials from the Presbyterian Church in the United States, documents from Iranian government agencies, and the recollections of those involved, this article explores various aspects of the Presbyterians’ educational, medical, and other projects in Iran.

Keywords

Protestantism, Iran, USA, evangelism, Iranian-American relations, Reza Shah, Cold War

About the Author

M. Yu. Surkov

Ural Federal University
Russian Federation

Maksim Yu. Surkov — Associated Professor of the Department of Oriental Studies

Yekaterinburg

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Review

For citations:

Surkov M.Yu. From “Solution of the Moslem Problem” to Promoting Modernization: The Evolution of Presbyterian Missionary Activities in Iran, 1925–1953. State, Religion and Church in Russia and Worldwide. 2026;44(2):130-157. (In Russ.)

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