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 emergance of Islam in the 7 th century brought back the past greatness and furthure added to its culture and civilization. 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 ,ended the rule of monarchial system 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 head of government. 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 vested by the Constitution in the Consultative Assembly, the Parliament. Deputies, representing each a geographic constituency are elected by direct, secret ballot once every four years. The Constitution provides for the Guardians Council to examine all legislation passed by the Parliament and ensure that it is in conformity with 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.