Stalin-Paradoxes of Power 1878-1928 Volume 1

In this first volume of his three-volume work, Stephen Kotkin describes the "catching up" process of Stalin, undoubtedly one of the most influential political figures in the history of the 20th century, between 1878 and 1928, from Tsarist Russia to the October Revolution and its aftermath. A process that can also be read as the incubation period of "Stalinism".
This book tells the story of Stalin's youth and his rise to prominence as a leader during the first ten years of Soviet power.
The childhood and early youth that Stalin - "then" known as Soso Djugashvili - spent in the Georgian countryside as the son of a poor family is a difficult story of deprivation. This is followed by a seminary experience in Tbilisi. At the turning point that shakes the world and Russia, its direction also changes. He is influenced by Georgian social nationalism and turns to Marxist socialism through it.
Kotkin describes Stalin's life between 1901 and 1917 as a typical "career" for the revolutionaries of the period in Russia: Secret political organizing activity, agitation, Siberian exile, imprisonment... A period spent "accumulating anger"...
The book very vividly describes what distinguishes the young Stalin in this typical career: a boldness fed by his bully culture, a competitiveness and skepticism that can "turn enemies" on his comrades, and his ability to organize "ordinary" cadres. The path of an ordinary or seemingly ordinary militant to leadership...

(From the Promotional Bulletin)

Dough Type: 2nd Dough

Number of Printings: 1st Edition

First Print Year: 2018

Number of Pages: 1096

Size: 11.5 x 21.5