History
Iran is one of the oldest cradles of human civilization as witnessed by the multiple archeological remains and the historical and cultural monuments uncovered throughout the national territory. The Arab conquest in the 7 th century introduced Islam, which replaced Zoroastrianism as the principal faith of the Iranians. Iran witnessed subsequently successive waves of invaders (Mongols, Tatars etc.) until the Safavid dynasty restored its former greatness The Great Islamic Revolution of 1979, under the leadership of Imam Khomeini , ousted Pahlavi dynasty under which Iran became an Islamic Republic. The constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran was drafted and ratified by popular vote in 1979. The political institutions were established the same year.
The executive branch includes a president, who is, according to the constitution," the holder of the highest official power. He selects a cabinet that must be approved by the legislative assembly or Majlis. The President is elected for a four-year term on the basis of an absolute majority vote; he may be re-elected for one additional term.The legislative power is invested by the constitution in the Consultative Assembly, the Parliament, or Majlis. Deputies, representing each a geographic constituency are elected by direct, secret ballot once every four years. The constitution provides for the Council of Guardians to examine all legislation passed by the Majlis and ensure that it is conform to the Islamic law. It provides also for an independent judiciary headed by the High Council of Justice, whose responsibilities include preparing draft bills related to the judiciary, and supervising the appointment of jurists.