Ep 39. Totalitarian Russia - 1918 - 39

In the season finale of Foundations of Western Civilization II: A History of the Modern Western World, episode 39 titled "Totalitarian Russia - 1918-39," viewers are taken on a journey through one of the most tumultuous periods in Russian history. The episode delves into the rise of communism in Russia, the establishment of the Soviet Union, and the totalitarian rule of Joseph Stalin.

The episode introduces viewers to Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolsheviks, who led the communist revolution in 1917. Lenin introduced radical changes to Russian society, including the nationalization of land and industry, the establishment of a planned economy, and the creation of a new government structure based on workers' councils.

However, Lenin's reign was short-lived as he suffered a stroke in 1922 and died two years later. This led to a power struggle within the Communist Party, with Stalin eventually emerging as the new leader. Stalin's rule was characterized by oppression, secrecy, and fear. He established a cult of personality, with his image appearing everywhere, from statues to posters to films.

The episode explores Stalin's totalitarian rule, including his policies of collectivization and industrialization. These policies were aimed at modernizing the country, but they came at a great cost to the people. Millions of peasants were forced off their land and into collective farms, leading to widespread famine and death. At the same time, industrialization led to the exploitation of workers in dangerous and grueling conditions.

The episode also looks at Stalin's purges, which targeted anyone suspected of disloyalty or opposition to the regime. This included party members, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens. Thousands were arrested, tortured, and executed, with many others sent to labor camps or exiled to remote regions.

Despite the oppression and terror of Stalin's rule, the episode shows how the Soviet Union also made significant contributions to modern Western civilization. These included the development of nuclear weapons, advances in science and technology, and the exploration of space.

Overall, the season finale of Foundations of Western Civilization II: A History of the Modern Western World provides a fascinating and in-depth look at one of the most important periods in Russian history. Viewers will gain a greater understanding of the rise of communism, the establishment of the Soviet Union, and the totalitarian rule of Joseph Stalin.