Lex Fridman Podcast cover image

#444 – Vejas Liulevicius: Communism, Marxism, Nazism, Stalin, Mao, and Hitler

Lex Fridman Podcast

00:00

Power Struggles in Early Soviet Leadership

This chapter examines the intricate power dynamics among Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin during the formative years of the Soviet Union, focusing on pivotal events like the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. It explores Lenin's strategic decisions, the contrasting political approaches of Trotsky and Stalin, and the implications of propaganda in shaping public perceptions. Additionally, the chapter analyzes the role of the secret police in Stalin's consolidation of power and poses philosophical questions regarding the motivations of leaders who wielded ideology as a tool for their ambitions.

Transcript
Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app