Millions line the route through Tehran

Prison doors opened for activists from Islamist, Marxist and other opposition currents as the royal security system disintegrated.

The releases embodied a central revolutionary demand: freedom for those imprisoned for resisting monarchy and repression.

Former prisoners entered a rapidly changing public arena in which diverse revolutionary organizations competed over Iran's future.

The return of well-known prisoners reminded the public of SAVAK, military trials and the suppression of organized opposition.

After more than fourteen years in exile, Khomeini landed at Mehrabad Airport and was welcomed by immense crowds.

At the graves of those killed in the struggle, he honored the martyrs and rejected the legitimacy of the Bakhtiar government.

Revolutionary leadership moved from exile to Tehran while the royal government retained offices but rapidly lost popular authority.

Bazargan was asked to form a provisional government and organize the transition to a new republic.

Bazargan's appointment joined the Islamic leadership with a veteran nationalist and supporter of Mossadegh.

Bakhtiar still headed the royal cabinet, while the revolutionary movement recognized Bazargan's provisional government.