Description
This paper examines the historical foundations of relations between Iran and Latin America to explain their contemporary policy significance. Existing literature often situates Iran’s engagement with Latin America through the lens of post-1979 ideology and strategic signaling toward the United States. This paper explores the overlooked relations between Iran and Latin American countries that began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries which aided in shaping post-revolutionary engagement. Drawing on archival materials, such as diplomatic records and trade initiatives, the paper aims to reconstruct a longer narrative on how Iran developed diplomatic awareness, interests, and engagements with Latin America early on. While these early encounters were limited in nature, they created precedents and expectations that later informed Iranian post-revolutionary foreign policymaking. By placing contemporary Iran–Latin America relations within this historical genealogical context, the paper can demonstrate how current policies draw on a history of understandings and partnership rather than a new strategic plan. This paper contributes to ongoing discussions by highlighting the implications of transregional engagements, rethinking foundations of Iranian foreign policy, and underscoring the importance of documenting South–South relations.