Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Supreme Leader of Iran, dies at age 86 of internal bleeding (born 1900).

On June 3, 1989, the world mourned the loss of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the Supreme Leader of Iran, who passed away at the age of 86 due to complications from internal bleeding. Born in 1900, Khomeini became a prominent figure in Iranian politics and played a significant role in shaping the nation’s history.

Ayatollah Khomeini was born in Khomeyn, a small town in central Iran, and grew up in a religious family. He pursued Islamic studies and became a respected Shia Muslim cleric known for his knowledge and piety. Khomeini gradually became involved in politics, particularly as an advocate for the rights and interests of the Iranian people.

One of the defining moments in Ayatollah Khomeini’s life was his opposition to the monarchy in Iran under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Khomeini criticized the Shah’s policies and the influence of Western powers in Iran, which resonated with many Iranians who felt marginalized and oppressed. This led to Khomeini’s exile to Najaf, Iraq, in 1964.

During his time in exile, Ayatollah Khomeini continued to advocate for an Islamic republic in Iran. He delivered powerful speeches and writings that criticized the Shah’s regime and called for a revolution to establish an Islamic government. His ideas gained traction among various segments of Iranian society, including intellectuals, religious leaders, and the working class.

The revolution that Ayatollah Khomeini had long envisioned finally took place in 1979. Millions of Iranians took to the streets demanding an end to the Shah’s rule and the establishment of an Islamic republic. The Shah was eventually forced into exile, and Khomeini returned triumphantly to Iran after 14 years in Najaf.

Following the revolution, Ayatollah Khomeini assumed the role of Supreme Leader, becoming the highest authority in the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran. Under his leadership, Iran underwent significant changes, both domestically and on the global stage.

Internally, Ayatollah Khomeini sought to establish an Islamic government based on his interpretation of Sharia law. This led to the implementation of policies aimed at promoting Islamic values in society, including the enforcement of the hijab (Islamic dress code) for women and the prohibition of alcohol. Khomeini’s government also focused on improving social services, education, and healthcare for the Iranian people.

However, Ayatollah Khomeini’s tenure was not without controversy and challenges. His government faced opposition from various factions, including secularists, leftists, and ethnic minorities who felt marginalized. The Iran-Iraq War, which lasted from 1980 to 1988, also posed a significant test for Khomeini’s leadership as Iran faced international isolation and economic difficulties.

On June 3, 1989, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy in Iranian and global history. His death marked the end of an era and sparked a period of mourning in Iran. Millions of Iranians attended his funeral, paying their respects to the man who had played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.

Despite his critics, Ayatollah Khomeini remains an influential figure in Iran and the wider Muslim world. His teachings and writings continue to inspire and guide many individuals and political groups. Khomeini’s vision of an Islamic republic and his unwavering commitment to fighting against perceived injustice and oppression secured his place in history as one of the most important leaders in Iran’s modern history.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s death on June 3, 1989, marked the end of an era in Iranian history. A complex and influential figure, Khomeini’s ideas and actions had a profound impact on the nation and its people. His legacy continues to shape Iran’s political, social, and religious landscape, making him an enduring figure in the hearts and minds of millions.