Behind the Bastards The Childhood of Joseph Stalin
Feb 6, 2020
Cody Johnston, co-host of Some More News and Worst Year Ever, brings his wit to explore Joseph Stalin's tumultuous childhood. The discussion highlights Stalin's harsh upbringing in Gori, marked by poverty and familial strife, including his father's alcoholism. Cody and the host inject humor while examining Stalin's influences, his rebellious seminary days, and the complexities of his character. They also draw parallels between Stalin's cult of masculinity and modern authoritarian figures, providing a fascinating glimpse into the making of a notorious leader.
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Stalin's Early Losses
- Stalin's parents, Beso and Keke, had two children die before he was born.
- Beso, a cobbler, was joyful at the birth of his first son but turned to alcohol after the child's death.
A Fragile Beginning
- Stalin was born weak and fragile, with webbed toes.
- Despite early health scares, he survived, and the family briefly prospered, even enjoying butter.
Keke's Character
- Keke, Stalin's mother, had a reputation for being a character, with stories like showing her breasts to baby Stalin.
- After Beso left, Keke became the head of the family and continued the cycle of violence, beating Stalin.
