Amir Kabir: His Life and His Role in The Iranian History

Mozaffar Shahedi

Mirza Mohammad Taghi Khan Amir Kabir, son of Karbalai Qorban Beig Farahani was born about 1807 in Hazaveh of Farahan in the district of Arak. His father was the head cook in Mirza Aboul Qassem Qaem Maqam's father, Mirza Eissa's administration. Due to his exceptional talent, from the very childhood, he was favored by Mirza Bozorg and later, Qaem Maqam Farahani, and he was appointed a secretary to both of them. He also drew the attention of Abbass Mirza Nayeb-os-saltaneh (viceroy). His first political experience was his travel toRussiain company with Khosrow Mirza and his mission. In the coming years he showed his extraordinary capability and competence, and in Fath Ali Shah's late years he became vazir Nizam [commander in chief] ofAzerbaijan. His mission to Arzanat-or-rum peace commission was a great success and on his return he was treated cordially by Mohammad Shah.

Upon commencement of Nasseraddin Shah's reign, Amir Kabir was appointed Sadre Azam (chancellor) and was entitled Atabake Azam. During his hold of office, he carried out various reforms in the administration of the country including: reorganization of army, establishment of post offices, passport office, foundation of Bazar and Timcheh and Saraye Amir, foundation of Intelligence organization, and Darol Fonun (Technical school), publication of Vaqaye Ettefaqeye, and the suppression of Babi insurgents.

He married Malekzadeh Khanum Ezzat-od-dowleh Nasseraddin Shah's full sister in Feb. 15 1849.

His efforts to break off the influence of the Russians and the British could be the threshold of a new era inIran, but the intrigues of the foreign agents and the malvolence of the courtiers resulted in Nasseraddin Shah's dissatisfaction with him.

Eventually he was disfavored by the Shah, who ordered his disposal from all his positions and exiled him to Kashan, and ordered Haji Ali Maraghei (Hajeboddowleh) to kill him.
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