Proles Pod

Ep 63 - The Stalin Eras: An Introduction (1878-1917)

Oct 9, 2024

Joseph Stalin, the influential leader of the Soviet Union, shares insights into his early life from his humble beginnings in 1878 to his revolutionary pursuits. He discusses his education in church school and seminary, pivotal in shaping his ideology. The conversation also covers his daring bank robbery that showcased his audacity. Stalin's evolution into a labor leader and journalist leading up to the October Revolution is examined, revealing the complexities behind his notorious reputation and the ideological groundwork that influenced his leadership.

42:47

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Episode guests

Joseph Stalin

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Quick takeaways

Stalin's leadership was characterized by his clear decision-making and genuine connection with the common people, allowing him to navigate political challenges effectively.

The podcast highlights the importance of reexamining Stalin's legacy through contemporary scholarship, which presents a more nuanced view of his contributions and limitations.

Deep dives

Stalin's Character and Leadership Style

Joseph Stalin is characterized as a man of great stature in the 20th century, exhibiting traits of simplicity, calmness, and courage. His leadership style was marked by clarity in decision-making and unwavering poise amidst challenges, allowing him to command respect even in the face of adversity. Stalin's ability to relate to the common man further distinguished him, as he profoundly understood the struggles faced by ordinary people and advocated for their issues. This authentic connection to his people and commitment to their welfare allowed him to navigate complex political landscapes while maintaining a sense of dignity.

Intro

2min

Stalin's Diplomatic Tactics During World War II

3min

Historical Roots and Revolutionary Ideals

5min

Introduction to the Stalin Era Series

4min

The Dual Image of Stalin

25min

The Revolutionary Foundations of 1917

3min

In this introductory episode we cover the who, what, where, and why of “The Stalin Eras”, a multi-part series on the life and times of Joseph Stalin. In addition, we also lay the foundations of young Stalin’s life: from his humble birth in 1878 to his revolutionary career leading into the October Revolution of 1917.

This first narrative of the series, “From Soso to Stalin”, begins with his childhood, before movin into his time in church school followed by seminary, and finally his early days as a labor leader and journalist for the Party leading into the October Revolution. And ofcourse, we cover young Stalin’s daring bank robbery!

The Stalin Eras, inspired by the classic RevLeft Radio episode “Stalin: A Marxist-Leninist Perspective,” mixes both narrative history (ala Blowback) and discussion (like classic ProlesPod) to provide the most comprehensive English overview of the life and impact of Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin, in podcast format.

Whether you’re a socialist history enthusiast, someone who’s just curious to learn more than what you got in school about the Soviet Union, or even a total hater who wants to rage, this series has something for everyone.

Episode Sources

Reflections on Stalinism (2024) by J Arch Getty

Secret British ‘black propaganda’ campaign targeted cold war enemies (2022)

Stalin: Passage to Revolution (2020) by Ronald Grigor Suny

Revisioning Stalin and Stalinism Complexities, Contradictions, and Controversies (2020) Edited by James Ryan and Susan Grant

Stalin: From the Caucasus to the Kremlin (2017) by Christopher Read

US., Soviet Textbooks Give Different Accounts of History (1987)

Death of the department that never was (1978)

On Stalin (1953) by W.E.B Dubois

Recommend Reading

Stalin History & Critique of a Black Legend by Domenico Losurdo

The Collected Works of J.V. Stalin: Volume I