Iran, a nation with an ancient civilization, situated in the heart of the world's energy center.
Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iran has played a complex and contradictory role on the international political stage.
The revolution toppled the Western-backed Pahlavi dynasty and established a regime led by religious scholars.
This transformation profoundly affected Iran's domestic and foreign policies, especially its relations with the Western world.
Entering the 21st century, Iran's political situation and economic development remain fraught with challenges.
Against this backdrop, the rise and reign of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad added rich colors to Iran's history.
In 2005, on a scorching summer day in Tehran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad stood before a crowd, passionately declaring, "Friends, Iran needs not only the wealth of oil and gas but also justice and dignity!" His words garnered applause from the crowd.
The son of a humble blacksmith won widespread popular support with his firm religious beliefs and nationalist sentiments.
Ahmadinejad's political career began with his political awakening during his university years.
The 1979 revolution showed him the possibility of change.
He actively participated in political activities, supported Khomeini's Islamic revolution, and even played a role in the occupation of the US embassy.
These experiences laid the foundation for his future political career.
Over time, Ahmadinejad's political stature steadily rose.
He served as mayor and governor and was eventually elected as Iran's president in 2005.
His policy proposals were clear: strengthen social investments, improve welfare, expand Iran's international influence, while also adhering to Iran's nuclear program.
His presidency was not without controversy.
His economic policies were criticized as overly populist, neglecting long-term economic stability.
At a cabinet meeting, he explicitly stated, "Our goal is to alleviate the burden on ordinary people, not to pursue attractive economic data."
Although this policy initially improved the living standards of the people, in the long run, it led to severe inflation and fiscal deficits.
During his second term, Iran's economic problems began to surface.
Unemployment remained high, housing prices soared, and the discontent among the youth gradually accumulated.
In a public speech in 2011, he was questioned by a young person, "How can we survive in such an economic environment?"
Ahmadinejad responded, "The government is working hard to address these issues, but it takes time."
Despite facing multiple pressures at home and abroad, Ahmadinejad remained steadfast in his course, especially in confronting Western pressure internationally.
Many of his statements and actions drew widespread attention and controversy on the world stage, complicating Iran's international image further.
Ahmadinejad's presidency ended in 2013.
Despite his attempts to revive the economy through expanding welfare policies and maintaining high oil prices, these measures did not address fundamental issues.
Iran's economic situation remained difficult, and social contradictions remained sharp.
He left behind a country filled with uncertainty and concerns.
The rise and fall of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the son of a blacksmith, symbolize Iran's struggles and confusions on the path to modernization.
His political career reflects the deep-seated contradictions and challenges in Iranian society, as well as the complexity of a country seeking independence and development in the era of globalization.
Although Ahmadinejad is seen as a controversial leader, his presidency is an undeniable part of Iran's modern history.
It is a story about ideals and realities, nationalism and global responsibility, short-term policies and long-term development, constantly reminding us of the significance and value of history.
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