MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH IN QAJAR ERA; IRAN

The Qajar dynasty (1794 – 1925) in Iran was preceded by the late 18th century Zands. Historically, the second half of the 19th century is the beginning of modernization in Iran. Mirza Taqhi Khan Amir Kabir, the Chief Minister of Naser-ad-Din Shah Qajar, the fourth king of Qajar dynasty, was a great reformist who was heavily involved in Iran’s modernization process including medicine. The foundation of Dar-al-Fonun (i.e. House of Techniques), the first modem higher educational institution in 1851, is considered as one of the most important efforts of Amir Kabir. The students were mainly taught by European teachers with aid of local translators.