8. Persia → Iran
In 1935, Persia officially became Iran, reflecting the native name used by its people. This shift aimed to strengthen national identity and assert independence on the global stage. While “Persia” still conjures images of ancient empires, “Iran” speaks to a modern, sovereign nation.
The change was part of a broader movement to align global naming with local usage. It’s a case where names carry centuries of cultural weight.