Prior to 1935, Iran was known as Persia. Persia was an ancient empire and continues to be the name used by many Iranians to refer to their country. The name Iran was officially adopted in 1935 by the government of Reza Shah Pahlavi.
Before 1935 the present Iran was known as Persia. Officially in 1935, the government been led by R. S Pahlavi made the change and it was officially enacted into law.