US-Iran Relations

Revolution Started

Jan 1, 1978

In January of 1978 a revolution started in Iran

U.S. Embassy Seized and 53 U.S. Diplomats taken Hostage.

Nov 1, 1979

U.S. Hostages released

Jan 1, 1981

After 14 months in Iranian captivity all 53 hostages were released and sent back to the U.S.

Iran - Contra affair

Jan 1, 1987

The U.S. Government secretly sold weapons to Iran, then gave the proceeds to Contra rebels fighting the Nicaraguan government. Congress had already prohibited this.