SAVAK remains a symbol of repression

The killing at a senior cleric's home was understood by supporters as proof that sacred and private spaces were no longer protected.

The assault weakened hopes that limited reform could contain the crisis and widened clerical resistance to the Shah.

The Shah removed the long-serving head of the security service as unrest undermined confidence in the regime.

A new director was appointed in an attempt to change the public face and methods of the monarchy's security apparatus.

Revolution supporters interpreted the personnel change as evidence that sustained protest could force retreats from the state.

In a national broadcast, the monarch pledged political liberalization and elections in an effort to calm growing unrest.

Years of controlled politics, censorship and repression made many activists doubt that reform could be delivered under the monarchy.

The concession showed that the palace could no longer dismiss protest as the work of a small minority.

Increasing numbers of demonstrators called for an end to royal rule rather than adjustments within the existing system.

Residents joined protests against repression, inequality and royal rule during the holy month of Ramadan.