The Reactions of Shiite Mojtaheds on Absolute Despotism of Fath Ali Shah Qajar

The present study attempts to explicate the role played by Shiite Mojtaheds in controlling the absolute despotism of Qajar kings. As a case study, it reviews the primary historical resources of Fath Ali Shah Qajar era (1797-1834) and at the same time it takes into consideration the theory of Oriental Despotism and the Asian model of production proposed by Marx and Engels. The main question posed is whether Shiite Mojtaheds—acting independently from the government—succeeded at inhibiting Fath Ali Shah's absolute despotism?
To answer this question, through using descriptive – analytical research method, the primary sources of this era were studied and it was revealed that the above-mentioned theory cannot be employed for accurate and scientific analysis of historical events of the given period. According to historical documents, Shiite Mojtaheds were independent from government and they succeeded at inhibiting the absolute despotism of Qajar kings as well as suppressing their tyranny in numerous occasions.
The present study reveals that the dual relationship between Shiite Mojtaheds and the king was based on approving while threatening Shiite Mojtaheds and following while questioning the legitimacy of the king. This was the mechanism used by Shiite Mojtaheds in limiting the autocracy of the government; which in turn indicates that Iranian society has had mechanisms for limiting the autocratic governments; something which has often been ignored by Western researchers.