Women’s Social-Economic Position in Iran by the 1905–1911 Constitutional Revolution as a Crisis-Ridden Factor of the Public Affairs

This article examines the key aspects of women’s socio-economic status in Iran at the beginning of the Constitutional Revolution of 1905–1911. This research is based on a thorough analysis of Persian-language sources and literature that has not been previously included in Russian historical studies. Special attention is given to the specifics of women’s status in various areas of public life: social, family, economic and educational. The analysis identifies three main groups of Iranian women: urban, sedentary peasants and nomadic women. Each group is examined in terms of its socio-domestic roles, role in a family structure and legal status. Special emphasis is placed on the economic contributions of each group, with a focus on urban populations as the most researched segment of Iranian society during the early 20th century. A review of educational opportunities available to women during this time period is also presented. The author seeks to uncover the specific role of women in Iranian society as one of the key factors contributing to the crisis of social relations at the beginning of the last century. Based on the analysis conducted, a list of key points for public demand to eliminate women’s inequality in various spheres of life has been formulated. These points are considered necessary conditions for further formation and development of women’s movements in Iran. The study attempts to comprehensively analyze the position of women in Iranian society at the turn of the century, as well as to identify the key factors that contributed to the emergence and development of the women’s movement in this country.

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