Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Ph.D. Candidate in the History of Islamic Iran, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of History, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
3 Associate Professor, Department of History, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
4 Professor, Department of History, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
This study examines the impacts of ninth-century AH governmental policies on the lives of Iranian rural communities, focusing on Nozl (mandatory quartering of state officials and diplomatic missions in rural households) and the passage of government troops through rural areas. The research methodology is based on a qualitative approach and historical analysis, involving the collection and thematic analysis of data from primary sources to explore the economic, social, and psychological effects of these practices. Findings indicate that Nozl, rooted in Iranian administrative traditions, became a heavy financial burden on villagers due to ineffective oversight, leading to reduced agricultural production, weakened social cohesion, and eroded trust in governance. Similarly, the passage of troops through rural areas during crises and lapses in supervision often resulted in the plundering of fields and destruction of rural infrastructure. Set in the context of the ninth century AH, this study reveals that these two phenomena collectively undermined the economy and social cohesion of rural communities. The main conclusion emphasizes the inherent tension between the productive role of villages and the financial demands of the state, highlighting the necessity of strengthening administrative oversight to mitigate pressures on villagers and ensure the sustainability of local communities.
Keywords
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