Revolutionaries Contradictions: Anti-Colonial Rhetoric and Colonial Alliances in Iranian Revolutions

National liberation movements worldwide often face significant obstacles due to the decisions and interests of colonial powers. This study explores the impact of colonialism in non-colonial countries, focusing on Iran, which has never been formally colonized. Despite this, strong anti-colonial sentiments and discourse were evident during Iran's two major contemporary revolutions (1905 and 1979). Although these revolutions primarily aimed to address internal issues, colonial forces frequently intervened at critical moments, diverting the trajectory of national movements. During the Qajar era, Iran suffered under imperialist control and internal mismanagement. Popular protests were fueled by dissatisfaction with customs issues and high inflation caused by integration with the global market system. While anti-colonial rhetoric was prominent in the constitutional revolution, internal issues remained the primary concern. Some argue that Great Britain instigated Iran's constitutional revolution and Tsarist Russia later thwarted it. Despite their anti-colonial slogans, revolutionaries staged a sit-in at the British Embassy and achieved their goals with British support. This paradox of internal revolutionaries aligning with colonial forces are traceable until 1979 revolution and after while in the tensions between eastern and western blocs. Employing historical analysis and document review, this research investigates this contradiction and traces its implications to the present day. One key finding is the explanation of how alliances between revolutionaries and colonial forces can lead to political crises, revealing how those seeking freedom often end up under the shadow of colonial powers.