Abstract:

In consideration of the use of the Qajar grand vizier Amir Kabir (d. 1852) as a supportive figure for the ideology of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the present study aims at scrutinizing the political practice of Amir Kabir using a comparative analytical approach. Based on an identified research gap, the study examines both, if Amir Kabir as a person and as a politician accords with modern Muslim political theory concerning the good vizier, and, if his use in support of anti-imperialistic, anti-monarchic and theocratic concepts is consistent with historical facts. The study concludes that Amir Kabir accords with the ideal type of the good vizier to a high extent, also his image of an anti-imperialistic role model is highly consistent with historical accounts. However, his use in support of anti-monarchic and theocratic goals turned out to be incoherent. Among others, the author recommends conducting additional research on other Iranian political currents’ use (or possible misuse) of Amir Kabir as a supportive figure for political goals, that were not subject to the present study.