The country formerly known as Persia is Iran. Historically, Persia was one of the great empires of antiquity, known for its rich culture, art, and architectural achievements. The name "Persia" was commonly used in the Western world until 1935 when Reza Shah Pahlavi requested that the international community refer to the country as Iran, which means "Land of the Aryans." This name change reflected national pride and a desire to emphasize the country’s heritage and identity. Iran has a complex and storied history that continues to influence its politics and culture today.