Diplomatic Immunity
Katie Stallard on Mythmaking & History in Russia, China, and North Korea
Feb 27, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Katie Stallard, a senior editor for China & global affairs at the News Statesman and former foreign correspondent, dives into the art of historical mythmaking by authoritarian regimes in Russia, China, and North Korea. She discusses how these narratives shape foreign policy and national identity, particularly the role of World War II history in modern conflicts. Stallard highlights the manipulation of events to maintain power, the mythologization of leaders like Kim Il-sung, and the need for critical historical education to combat revisionism.
46:41
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Quick takeaways
- Dictatorial regimes in Russia, China, and North Korea manipulate historical narratives to enhance legitimacy and consolidate political control over their populations.
- The portrayal of significant historical events is tailored by authoritarian governments to instill victimhood and justify contemporary political actions, shaping public perception.
Deep dives
Weaponizing History for Control
Dictatorial leaders in China, Russia, and North Korea manipulate their nations' histories to consolidate control over their populations. By framing past struggles and victories as part of their regimes' legitimacy, these leaders create narratives that justify their rule and enhance their authority. For instance, in Russia, Vladimir Putin emphasizes the Great Patriotic War as a defining moment of national pride, using it to rally support during times of crisis. Similarly, North Korea’s Kim regime mythologizes the story of Kim Il-sung liberating the country from Japanese occupation, effectively rewriting history to cultivate a powerful cult of personality.
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