In 'Gulag: A History', Anne Applebaum provides a detailed and documented history of the Soviet camp system. The book covers the chronological history of the camps, from their establishment in 1918 to their expansion under Stalin and their eventual collapse. Applebaum draws on Soviet-era archives, diaries, and writings of camp survivors to describe the lives and deaths of inmates, including their arrest, interrogation, transportation, and living conditions. The book also examines the cultural and social aspects of life within the Gulag, including its own laws, customs, literature, and morality. It is recognized as a landmark work of historical scholarship and an essential contribution to understanding the history of the twentieth century.
In 'Twilight of Democracy,' Anne Applebaum explores the rise of authoritarianism and nationalism in modern democracies. She argues that political systems with radically simple beliefs are inherently appealing, especially when they benefit loyal adherents to the exclusion of others. The book examines how despotic leaders rely on allies, bureaucrats, and media figures to support their rule and how modern authoritarian parties offer new paths to wealth and power. Applebaum draws on historical examples, including Stalinist central Europe and Nazi Germany, and investigates contemporary phenomena such as conspiracy theories, social media, and nostalgia. She warns that democracies are fragile and their survival depends on daily choices made by both elites and ordinary people.
Stalin's Children is a memoir that chronicles the author's family history across three generations, from the tragic disappearance of his grandfather during Stalin's purges to his father's Cold War romance and his own experiences as a journalist in Russia. The book delves into the complexities of Russian history and the personal struggles of those affected by it.
Are Vladimir Putin's days numbered? Or is the Russian leader as strong as ever? New from Intelligence Squared we bring you a subscriber exclusive series 'After Putin' where we explore whether after twenty three years of rule in Russia Putin's time in power is coming to an end. Through interviews with policy-makers, military personnel, journalists and academics, we reflect on whether a mutiny led by Yevgeny Prighozin's Wagner forces on Saturday June 24 2023 has set the wheels in motion for a Russia without Putin and what could come next.
In this first episode we're joined by Anne Applebaum and Owen Matthews to discuss whether Putin has lost control.
The episode is hosted and produced by Conor Boyle.
Clips from: MSNBC, DW News, Sky News
Music: - 220522 piano loop by donaldtimo
The first two episodes will be available to all, here on the Intelligence Squared podcast. If you'd like to listen the rest of the series head to intelligencesquared.com/membership or subscribe to our channel on Apple Podcasts
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