Introduction
The Persian Gulf, beyond a mere geographical waterway, is an inseparable part of Iranian historical and cultural identity. This vast body of water, registered globally for thousands of years under the name Persian Gulf, has not only been the vital artery for Iran’s interactions with the world but also a symbol of the eternal heritage and national spirit of the Iranian nation. Examining the position of the Persian Gulf in history and culture reveals its profound connection to Iranian identity.
Historical Position
The name Persian Gulf dates back to ancient times and was known as the “Sinus Persicus” during the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE). In historical Greek, Roman, and Islamic documents, the Persian Gulf is consistently linked to Iranian identity and described as a natural and strategic border for Iran. In the Middle Ages, Iranian navigators drew precise maps of the Persian Gulf and introduced it as a bridge for commercial interactions with India, China, and Africa.
During the Safavid and Qajar eras, the Persian Gulf was the scene of maritime interactions and diplomacy that solidified Iran’s authority over this waterway. For example, the Iranian naval fleet in the 17th century played a key role in safeguarding the Persian Gulf. Documents from the United Nations and the International Hydrographic Organization also emphasize the continuity of this name from the 19th century, highlighting the historical continuity of the Persian Gulf with Iranian identity.
Cultural Aspects
From a cultural perspective, the Persian Gulf is the cradle of human navigation and the initiator of Iran’s encounters with the world. The Persian Gulf is celebrated in Iranian folklore as the “Mother of Seas” and described in classical literature—from Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh to Hafez’s Divan—as a symbol of grandeur and mystery. Traditional Bandari music, local dances in southern Iran, and handicrafts like needlework all stem from the cultural interactions of the Persian Gulf and reflect ethnic diversity (from Iranian Arabs to Balochs).
In visual arts, Safavid miniature paintings and contemporary works depict the Persian Gulf as a symbol of Iran’s cultural unity. Cultural festivals such as National Persian Gulf Day (April 30) keep this heritage alive, with the role of media and intellectuals in its preservation being prominent. These cultural elements transform the Persian Gulf from a geographical location into a proud national identity card.
Role in Iranian Identity
The Persian Gulf plays a pivotal role in shaping Iranian national identity, serving as a symbol of civilizational continuity. The Persian Gulf, which has been Iran’s regional interaction artery for centuries, strengthens the sense of belonging to an ancient heritage.
For Iranians, preserving the name Persian Gulf is not merely a geographical issue but a defense of cultural and historical identity that aligns with concepts like “Iranshahr.” This role is prominent in education, media, and cultural policies, establishing the Persian Gulf as the “jewel of Iranian identity on the canvas of history.”
Conclusion
The Persian Gulf, with its profound historical position and cultural richness, is more than a waterway—it is a symbol of eternal Iranian identity. This heritage, rooted in the collective memory of the nation, requires preservation and safeguarding for future generations to sustain Iran’s civilizational bonds. In a turbulent world, the Persian Gulf remains a reminder of Iranian cultural authority and unit
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