Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was the last Shah (king) of Iran, ruling from 1941 until 1979. He was born on October 27, 1919, and became the monarch after his father, Reza Shah Pahlavi, was forced to abdicate during World War II. His reign saw significant modernization and Westernization efforts in Iran, including economic reforms and the promotion of women's rights. However, his rule faced increasing opposition due to political repression and social inequality. In 1979, widespread protests led to the Iranian Revolution, resulting in his exile and the establishment of an Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini.