Bakhtiari women, although they are not well-documented, were – and are – just as much a force to reckon with as their menfolk. Some were politically important in their own right – most especially Sardar Maryam. Other bibis (high status women) undoubtedly held behind-the-scenes power.

This section explores the complex family structures which were such an importance influence on the shifting alliances within the Bakhtiari Confederation. It focuses on:

• Sardar Maryam;
• Marriage alliances between and outside of the Bakhtiari;
• A 'case study': exploring the effects of polygamy, including 'transgenerational' families;
• The Empress Soraya
• Golnar Bakhtiar and her showjumping achievements

I would very much like to thank the Bakhtiari families who have kindly allowed their family photos to be used here. More photos and background information are on www.bakhtiarifamily.com and www.bakhtiari.ning.com (no longer available)