The Downfall

Abstract

This chapter is devoted to a reconstruction of events during the four critical days from the collapse of the government late in the afternoon of 19 August. The main happenings during this interval are known, but the axiom the devil is in the detail is eminently relevant to this brief episode. This is because, in recounting these events, some authors have assigned especial significance to certain happenings, projecting them as evidence of deliberate manipulation by the TPAJAX plotters to influence the course of events or steer them in a desired direction. Interpretative narratives reflect, at times, a view taken through an ideological prism or result from preconceived assumptions. In delving into details of this episode, therefore, we maintain a focus also on the events which have lent themselves to such interpretations and spins. A case in point is the emphasis placed on the so called black and grey propaganda by the TPAJAX agents or the presumed participation of some military units alleged to have been earmarked under the original coups. In three sub-sections, the chapter strives to shed light on all the intricate facets of responsibility versus claims of responsibility for the downfall. Combined with the ensuing Chapter 6, where additional data and analyses are provided, we strive to a present a comprehensive body of evidence on the CIA/SIS role in the actual downfall of the Mosaddeq government.