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There are about 5 million Azerbaijanis in east and west Azerbaijan, and 3 million in the rest of Iran where they form a strong middle class. In 1946, with Soviet backing, they briefly established their own republic. Denied autonomy under the Shah, they rose in 197980 against the supremacy of Ayatollah Khomeini and were forcibly repressed, although a degree of autonomy was promised.
The number of stripes changed frequently until around 1800. Red, white, and blue became the colours of liberty and an inspiration for other revolutionary flags around the world. Effective date: 19 February 1937.
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