The assembly debates popular sovereignty and Islamic authority

Clerical networks organized effectively while several left and minority organizations boycotted or faced disadvantages.

The vote established a formal arena for deciding the institutions of the Islamic Republic.

Debates focused on whether the assembly reflected the full diversity of the revolutionary coalition.

Seventy-three elected members began detailed deliberation on the constitution.

Clerical members advanced the principle that a qualified jurist should guide and supervise the republic.

The emerging constitution addressed public ownership, protection of the oppressed and rejection of foreign domination.

The prominent anti-Shah cleric, former political prisoner and advocate of popular councils died unexpectedly.

Large crowds honored a leader respected across religious, nationalist and left currents of the revolution.

Taleghani had emphasized shura, social justice and dialogue among competing political tendencies.

The leadership change strengthened the influence of the Islamic Republican Party in state-building.