Based on original research carried out in Iranian archives, The Qajar Pact explores new perspectives on nineteenth century Iranian state and society, and is the first broad study of lower social groups in this period. The author's study focuses on the role of the non-elite groups in urban society up to the years before the Constitutional Revolution. Three case studies discuss the political participation of the people in Bushire, Shiraz and Isfahan. Four thematic chapters cover women's political demonstrations, the unruly poor and social justice, soldiers and slaves.