The Recruitment Models of the Islamic Coalition Groups in Islamic Revolution from 1962 to 1979

One of the important aspects of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, ignored by the researchers inside and outside of Iran, is the models of recruitment among the active political groups in the last 15 years of the Shah regime. Our case study is the Islamic Coalition groups since their recruitment method was different from guerrilla and fundamental Islamic groups. The method of research is qualitative and its type is historical. Interview is the main data collection tool. Analysis method (including the analysis of the books, articles, documents etc) as a complimentary method, is also used. Findings of the research indicate that Imam Khomeini’s charisma was highly influential in the formation of the group and their recruitment of members. Most of members belonged to middle and lower middle class. Largely they were traditional and religious bazaaris. The group could not attract other social classes. The group’s recruitment model was unique and local in accordance with Imam’s recommendations.