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The New Founding Podcast
The Rise and Fall and Rise of Communism - Dr. Sean McMeekin | #56
Nov 12, 2024
In a captivating discussion, Sean McMeekin, a Bard College professor and author of several acclaimed books on Soviet history, dives deep into the origins and complex legacy of Communism. He explores the darker side of Lenin and Stalin's reign, contrasting romanticized Hollywood portrayals with historical facts. The conversation highlights the harrowing experiences of those on the Eastern Front during WWII, critiques bureaucratic systems in modern contexts, and addresses the evolution of freedom and civil liberties in contemporary society.
01:16:02
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast critiques the oversimplified portrayal of communism in media, emphasizing the violent realities often overlooked in favor of a romanticized narrative.
- Sean McMeekin shares his academic journey into communism, shaped by personal interviews that reveal the harsh truths of historical and ideological complexities.
Deep dives
Misconceptions of Communism's Historical Role
The podcast highlights the pervasive misconceptions surrounding communism's historical role in anti-fascism, often overstating its contributions while neglecting its violent nuances. It discusses how figures like Lenin and Stalin mobilized discontented societal members to commit heinous acts, distorting the popular narrative that views communists solely as early anti-fascists. The host emphasizes that many depictions in Hollywood and mainstream media simplify and misrepresent the historical context and actions of communist leaders during World War II and in the preceding years. This results in a skewed understanding, which is often celebrated among certain circles while dismissing the complexity of these historical events.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode