"The UK and the U.S. played a role in the overthrow of a very popular prime minister, " Mohammed Mossadeq, in 1953, Bakhash said.

CNN: Iran's attacks on UK tap into centuries of suspicion

"Mossadeq unexpectedly has become more of a hero for the younger generation as well, " Bakhash said, with memories carried on in families and lessons taught in universities.

CNN: Iran's attacks on UK tap into centuries of suspicion

Looking at now-released cabinet records concerning the invasion of Suez (1956), the US and British-supported overthrow of Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadeq (1953) and the overthrow of the elected government of British Guiana (1953), Mr Curtis finds talk in private only of oil and other strategic interests.

BBC: Analysis: Perils of peacekeeping