Iran: “A Testing Ground for the Atlantic Charter”

Abstract

After the British interventions in Iraq and Egypt, Washington took a stronger stand against British and, to a lesser degree, Soviet, interference in Iran. To Roosevelt, Iran became a demonstration for what the United States could achieve in the Middle East. He hoped American experimentation might provide a model for other states, particularly Saudi Arabia, and Egypt and Iraq as well. Growing influence also placed Washington in a strong position in the Persian Gulf. As officials became more interested in the vast amounts of Iranian oil, Roosevelt’s designs had as much to do with outmaneuvering British and Soviet designs as it did with standing up for Iranian interests.

I was rather thrilled with the idea of using Iran as an example of what we could do by an unselfish American policy. We could not take on a more difficult nation than Iran. I would like, however, to have a try at it.

FDR to Cordell Hull, January 12, 1944.¹

The President and the Department have considered Iran as something of a testing ground for the Atlantic Charter and for the good faith of the United Nations.

Edward Stettinius, July 31, 1944.²