Central to the author's narrative is exploring Iran's historical decline, from the Achaemenid Empire to the Pahlavi Dynasty. He posits that the last Kings of the Achaemenid and Sassanid Dynasties, Darius III and Yazdegerd III, shared a common flaw- a lack of courage to lead their soldiers into battle. This deficiency in leadership, the author argues, allowed Iran's enemies to erode the nation's sovereignty.
The author discussed the negative impact of the 1953 Coup, a pivotal event in Iran's history, on the country's political life. Colonel Tavakoli believes Dr. Mohammad Mussadiq was moving Iran's foreign policy in the right direction by nationalizing Iran's oil industry, as his domestic policy aimed to counter England's control over Iran's domestic affairs. Mussadiq allowed freedom of speech to flourish in Iran. However, after the 1953 Coup, freedom of speech was limited and put to the test.
Colonel Tavakoli was a supporter of Dr. Mossadegh. The Imperial Iranian Armed Forces' intelligence service decided that he could not be trusted and should not hold any position due to concerns that he might jeopardize Iran's safety and security. Despite being a highly decorated military officer who had received training in France, Pakistan and the US, the Iranian Armed Forces rejected his proposal to train soldiers in Rwanda. This rejection proved a turning point in his life, as he tried to overthrow the Pahlavi Dynasty through a coup. However, his plot was exposed, and the coup could not be carried out.
Colonel Tavakoli did not oppose Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi as the head of state of Iran but had concerns about the administration of domestic policy, including limitations on freedom of speech. The book's author, while acknowledging the shortcomings in the Shah's domestic policies, also showed sincere admiration for his leadership, providing a balanced perspective.
The book's central theme, as the author emphasizes, is not to lament past grievances but to inspire unity among different factions. This call for unity is a powerful message that may inspire readers and contribute to a more harmonious and constructive political discourse.
The author mentions several times that there was corruption during the reign of the Pahlavi; however, the author does not present any facts about the corruption.
The author presents hidden historical facts, such as the separation of Iran's Baluchistan from England 200 years ago and its subsequent transfer to India. These unique insights are likely to enlighten readers and spark further analysis and discussion, inspiring a deeper understanding of Iran's history.
Finally, Colonel Tavakoli survived with his daughter, Mitra, and his son, Babak. We should remember Colonel Tavakoli as a person who faithfully served his king, country, and fellow Iranians.
