Asked by Nivya Joseph on Jul 05, 2024

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Why did the CIA help to overthrow Mohammed Mossadegh?

A) He ended Iran's nonaligned status by allying with the Soviet Union.
B) He attempted to nationalize foreign oil interests in Iran.
C) He vowed to build a military coalition to destroy the state of Israel.
D) He attempted to create an organization through which the oil-producing nations of the Middle East could control the price of oil.

Mohammed Mossadegh

An Iranian Prime Minister in the early 1950s known for his role in the nationalization of the Iranian oil industry and his subsequent overthrow in a coup d'état.

Nationalize

The process by which a government takes control of a private industry, business, or assets, often to ensure public access or control.

  • Evaluate the role of covert operations, such as those by the CIA, in shaping international relations during the Cold War.
  • Critique the role of U.S. foreign policy in shaping the destinies of developing countries against the backdrop of Cold War dynamics.
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KM
Keaton MollereckhoffJul 08, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Mossadegh attempted to nationalize foreign oil interests in Iran, which included the British-owned Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. This threatened the economic interests of both Britain and the US, who relied on Iran's oil reserves. As a result, the CIA orchestrated a coup to overthrow Mossadegh and restore the power of the Shah, who was more favorable to Western interests.