Ruhollah Khomeini, born in 1902, was a prominent Shiite cleric who emerged as the spiritual leader of the Iranian Revolution. His strong opposition to the Shah's secular policies and Western ties resonated with a broad spectrum of Iranians. After years in exile, Khomeini returned triumphantly to Iran in 1979 and led the establishment of the Islamic Republic. As Supreme Leader, he shaped Iran's political structure based on velayat-e faqih (guardianship of the Islamic jurist), granting clerics significant authority in governance. His leadership redefined Iran's identity and foreign relations until his death in 1989.
