A Life in Three Parts
Hassan Nemazee tells his story in Persia, Politics & Prison. His autobiography explores the world of Iranian Americans, the inner-workings of the political system of the United States, and a frank inside look into the penal system and the need for prison reform.
The autobiography by Hassan Nemazee, “Persia, Politics & Prison,” offers readers an insightful exploration of the U.S. prison system through the lens of his own experiences and advocacy for prison reform. This compelling narrative chronicles Nemazee’s ascent in finance and politics and his profound transformation from incarceration to becoming a fervent advocate for social justice.
Through his memoir of resilience and redemption, Nemazee exposes the shortcomings of the penal system, seeking to inspire change and promote a deeper understanding of the need for criminal justice reform. Explore this must-read memoir, available now, to discover his unique perspective and commitment to improving the justice system.
“From the sun-drenched heights of Park Avenue to the dismal depths of a Brooklyn prison known as ‘the dungeon,’ from political friendships with U.S. presidents to prison friendships with convicted murderers—and many other places and people along the way. It hasn’t all been wonderful, but it’s certainly been a hell of a ride.”
– Hassan Nemazee in Persia, Politics & Prison Epilogue
Hassan Nemazee, born in 1950 in Washington D.C., took over his family’s businesses and philanthropic efforts in Iran after his father’s death in 1972. Following the 1978 Islamist Revolution, he lost most of his wealth but rebuilt his life in the U.S., becoming a prominent business and community figure. His involvement in politics and philanthropy led to the creation of the first political action committee for Iranian Americans, though he faced legal challenges, including an arrest in 2009 for bank fraud. Now residing in Miami, Nemazee and his wife focus on supporting democracy, criminal justice reform, and charitable causes.
Hassan Nemazee’s memoir is a compelling tale of his rise and fall as a Persian American prince of finance. The book has a Dickensian arc, and it’s filled with colorful characters who accompanied him up and down the ladder. The young Nemazee grows up in a home of power and privilege. His wealthy shipowner father’s chum is CIA Director Richard Helms, known as “Uncle Dick.” He attends Harvard, builds a business fortune in Iran and America, and raises money for Democratic pals like Hillary Clinton and other Democrats. And then the axe falls: As the 2008 financial crunch hits, the FBI discovers the false and fraudulent statements he’s used to keep his money machine running—and he’s convicted and sentenced to 12 years in prison. Nemazee describes a sometimes odious prison world where crossing gangs like the Aryan Brotherhood can be a death sentence, but many of his fellow inmates seem like remarkably decent people. Like every good Dickens novel, this one has a happy ending—a new life beyond prison earned through suffering and redemption. Readers will surely come away with one visceral lesson: Don’t cook the books.”
This is a fascinating story told from a vantage point most of the world will never see. From, literally, the highest of places (Ambassador nominee) to the lowest of places (Texarcana Federal Prison) and now back, Hassan’s path is both gut wrenching and uplifting. An excellent read.
“Persia, Politics, and Prison” by Hassan Nemazee is a powerful memoir that explores the complexities of power, legacy, and the hidden costs of success. Nemazee’s vivid storytelling takes readers from the heights of political influence to the depths of the prison system, revealing how success can mask deeper truths. The memoir is a thought-provoking exploration of hubris, humility, and social justice reform. With real-life twists that could rival any movie, this story proves that truth is often more compelling than fiction.
Persia, Politics & Prison is available now! Click the link below to secure your copy today.
