Title
Stalin: A Biography,Used
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Overthrowing the conventional image of Stalin as an uneducated political administrator inexplicably transformed into a pathological killer, Robert Service reveals a more complex and fascinating story behind this notorious twentiethcentury figure. Drawing on unexplored archives and personal testimonies gathered from across Russia and Georgia, this is the first fullscale biography of the Soviet dictator in twenty years.Service describes in unprecedented detail the first half of Stalin's lifehis childhood in Georgia as the son of a violent, drunkard father and a devoted mother; his education and religious training; and his political activity as a young revolutionary. No mere messenger for Lenin, Stalin was a prominent activist long before the Russian Revolution. Equally compelling is the depiction of Stalin as Soviet leader. Service recasts the image of Stalin as unimpeded despot; his control was not limitless. And his conviction that enemies surrounded him was not entirely unfounded.Stalin was not just a vengeful dictator but also a man fascinated by ideas and a voracious reader of Marxist doctrine and Russian and Georgian literature as well as an internationalist committed to seeing Russia assume a powerful role on the world stage. In examining the multidimensional legacy of Stalin, Service helps explain why later wouldbe reformerssuch as Khrushchev and Gorbachevfound the Stalinist legacy surprisingly hard to dislodge.Rather than diminishing the horrors of Stalinism, this is an account all the more disturbing for presenting a believable human portrait. Service's lifetime engagement with Soviet Russia has resulted in the most comprehensive and compelling portrayal of Stalin to date.
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- Q: What is 'Stalin: A Biography' about? A: 'Stalin: A Biography' by Robert Service provides a comprehensive look at Joseph Stalin's life, challenging the traditional portrayal of him as solely a ruthless dictator. The book explores Stalin's early life, political rise, and the complexities of his leadership.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Stalin: A Biography'? A: The author of 'Stalin: A Biography' is Robert Service, a historian known for his extensive research on Soviet history.
- Q: What is the publication date of this biography? A: 'Stalin: A Biography' was published on April 4, 2005.
- Q: What is the condition of the book? A: The book is listed as a used item in good condition, indicating it may show some signs of wear but remains intact and readable.
- Q: How many pages does 'Stalin: A Biography' have? A: 'Stalin: A Biography' contains a total of 736 pages, providing an in-depth account of Stalin's life and legacy.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: 'Stalin: A Biography' is available in a hardcover binding, which offers durability and a premium feel.
- Q: What are the main themes discussed in the book? A: The book discusses themes such as Stalin's childhood, his role as a revolutionary, his leadership style, and the psychological aspects of his rule, providing a nuanced view of his character.
- Q: Is this the first edition of the book? A: Yes, this is the first edition of 'Stalin: A Biography'.
- Q: Can this book help me understand Stalin's influence on modern Russia? A: Yes, Robert Service's biography examines Stalin's impact on Soviet history and his lasting influence on contemporary Russian politics and society.
- Q: What makes this biography different from other books about Stalin? A: This biography distinguishes itself by drawing on unexplored archives and personal testimonies, offering a more complex portrayal of Stalin beyond the typical narratives.