Book 9: The Great Game – The History of Colonialism Series
Uncover the dark, cloak-and-dagger realities of geopolitical manipulation in The Great Game, the ninth volume in Mehdi Mirkiai’s captivating series, The History of Colonialism. This volume transports readers to 19th-century Persia (modern-day Iran), where the royal court became a dangerous chessboard for foreign empires. Mirkiai masterfully exposes how world superpowers utilized assassination, political blackmail, and sabotage to suppress local progression and maintain colonial dominance over the region.
The Tragic Mysteries of Dar al-Fonun
The narrative centers around the political fallout following the tragic dismissal of Amir Kabir, Persia's visionary and reform-minded Prime Minister. Just two days after his removal from power, foreign educators arrived to begin teaching at the newly established Dar al-Fonun—Persia’s very first modern institution of higher learning. Sensing a threat to colonial influence, the British ambassador immediately pressured Naser al-Din Shah to dismiss these independent Austrian instructors. When the Shah refused out of diplomatic respect for the Austrian emperor, a chilling wave of tragedy struck the campus.
Within a short period, three prominent European professors died under highly suspicious, unexplained circumstances:
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Zatti: A talented mathematics and engineering instructor, found dead from suspected charcoal gas fumes.
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Joseph Czarnotta: A dedicated mining professor, who passed away suddenly following violent seizures.
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Ernest Cloquet: The Shah’s own personal French physician, who died after drinking from a poisoned cup handed to him by his own servant.
The terrifying secrets behind these sudden deaths at Dar al-Fonun were officially left unsolved, leaving a historical scar that perfectly encapsulates the ruthless lengths to which global empires went to sabotage local educational and industrial independence.
Essential Historical Literature for Students and History Buffs
The Great Game reads like a historical political thriller, yet it is grounded in meticulous academic research. It provides readers with an uncompromised look at the intersection of European imperialism, Middle Eastern history, and the covert warfare that shaped modern international relations. It is an exceptional resource for secondary school students, university researchers, and casual readers alike who want to look past standard textbooks.
Why This Book belongs in Your Historical Collection:
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Covert Political Thriller: Unpacks the terrifying real world espionage, sabotage, and mysterious assassinations used as weapons of empire.
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Focus on Modernization Sabotage: Explores how colonial superpowers actively suppressed educational advancements in developing nations to maintain control.
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Flawless Series Context: A vital ninth volume in The History of Colonialism series, shedding light on the geopolitical tug-of-war over Persia.
Product Specifications & International Shipping
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Author: Mehdi Mirkiai
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Series: The History of Colonialism (Book 9)
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Target Audience: Highly recommended for young adults, secondary history students (including those prepping for IGCSE examinations), and mature history enthusiasts.
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Global Delivery: Carefully packaged and dispatched from our UK hub. Enjoy rapid, tracked, and reliable shipping options across Europe and the Americas.