Why did rapid urbanization create difficulties for many rural migrants in Iran?

Rapid urbanization in Iran during the 1960s and 1970s was largely driven by the White Revolution, an aggressive modernization program that disrupted traditional rural economies. When the government implemented land reforms, it failed to establish a comprehensive support system to replace the role of landowners, who had previously provided tenants with essential farming necessities.123

This lack of infrastructure led to a high failure rate for new farms, forcing many agricultural workers and farmers to migrate to major cities like Tehran in search of employment in the booming construction industry. Upon arrival, these migrants faced significant difficulties, including:23

• Social Isolation: The migration caused the deterioration of the extended family structure, which had served as the traditional support system in Iranian culture.23
• Economic Hardship: Migrants encountered high costs of living and poor working conditions.23
• Living Conditions: Many were forced into crowded, inadequate housing, leading to harsh living environments for the urban poor.24

These challenges left many new migrants disenchanted and alienated, eventually leading them to turn to the ulama for guidance and support against the shah’s regime.1