The Achaemenid Empire (c. 550–330 BCE) ruled most of what is now Turkey for over two centuries, but unlike in Iran, there are relatively few monumental buildings that are unmistakably "Persian." This is because the Achaemenids generally governed Anatolia through existing local kingdoms and cities rather than replacing them with entirely new Persian cities.

The Sasanian (Sassanid) Empire (224–651 CE) controlled only a relatively small part of what is now Turkey, and usually only for limited periods. As a result, there are far fewer unmistakably Sasanian ruins in Turkey than Achaemenid or Roman/Byzantine remains. Most surviving sites are frontier fortifications, battlefields, or cities contested between the Roman/Byzantine and Sasanian empires, rather than monumental Sasanian palaces like those in Iran or Iraq.

It is impossible to speak of the history and archaeology of Iran without remembering the late Alireza Shapour Shahbazi. The central focus of this exceptional scholar's research was the history of the Achaemenid and Sasanian empires, yet he never overlooked the Shahnameh or the many other expressions of Iran's ancient cultural heritage. Indeed, anything that shed light on the ancient history of Iran was, for Shahbazi, worthy of careful investigation and scholarly attention. Now, twenty years after his passing, we perhaps appreciate more than ever what an extraordinary historian and archaeologist the field has lost. The anniversary of his death, on 16 July, offers an opportunity to briefly reflect on his remarkable scholarly legacy.

The establishment of a structured naval force under the Achaemenid Empire represents one of the most significant developments in the history of Persian maritime power. While maritime activities in the Persian world predate the Achaemenids by millennia, the reign of King Darius I (r. 522–486 BCE) marked a decisive transformation from regional seafaring traditions into an organized imperial naval system.

The Iranian Constitutional Revolution of 1906 (Mashruteh) represented one of the most remarkable political transformations in nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Asia. Despite its structural weaknesses, limited social participation, and failure to establish a fully democratic system, the movement introduced unprecedented concepts of constitutional governance, rule of law, representative institutions, and limitations on absolute authority.

Al-Khwarizmi is one of Iran’s most renowned scholars, with a reputation that extends throughout the world. His name was not only celebrated in the past; even today, he is recognized globally for his originality and contributions to mathematics, astronomy, geography, and philosophy. Today, the 22nd of Tir, marks his auspicious birthday.

Today, the 22nd of Tir, marks the anniversary of the passing of one of Iran’s most renowned archaeologists, the late Mostafavi Kashani. He played a significant role in introducing the grandeur and magnificence of the Achaemenid civilization to the world.

From what historians have recorded, one can clearly understand the elevated position of the Persian language during the period of Arab domination over our land. The language of the Arabs never truly took root in Iran and never entered the lives of the general population. Therefore, although Iranians who had dealings with Arabs were compelled to learn Arabic and used it only to meet their daily necessities, their own language remained Persian, along with its various beautiful dialects. In the cities and villages of Iran, people spoke only Persian languages and dialects, and in their daily lives they used no other language. The greatest proof that Arabic never became established in Iran—and the reason why, shortly after the conquest by the Arab armies, Persian once again replaced Arabic in literature and administration—was that Arabic never entered Iranian households and never found a place in the everyday life of the people.

Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) was one of the most influential figures of the eighteenth century and a key contributor to the intellectual, scientific, and political development of the United States. Known as a polymath, Franklin excelled in many fields, including science, invention, literature, diplomacy, and public service. His curiosity, dedication to experimentation, and commitment to improving society led to discoveries and innovations that had a lasting impact on the modern world. From his groundbreaking research on electricity to his role in shaping American political ideals, Franklin’s achievements demonstrate the power of knowledge, creativity, and practical problem-solving. This article explores Franklin’s major inventions, scientific discoveries, and contributions to society, highlighting his importance as a scientist, inventor, and historical figure.