The article deals with the events preceding the beginning of the Iranian revolution. The transformation of Iran into a semi-colony of Western states led to the beginning of the national liberation movement, which acquired various forms at the end of the 19th century. Under the pressure of popular, liberal and religious movements, the shah had to abolish the Tobacco Monopoly, which turned the country into a raw material appendage of Great Britain. This article also highlights the diplomatic struggle being waged by Russia to annul this monopoly.