The Cold War Erupts
When you include all combat and civilian deaths, WWII becomes the most destructive war in history with estimates as high as 60 million including 25 million Russians
The USSR lost around 20 million people in WWII By contrast Great Britain lost around 370,000 and USA lost 297,000 people. Joseph Stalin (died 1953) – the communist dictator of Russia – was determined to make the USSR a new superpower and to challenge democracy and capitalism around the world |
Stalin's TerrorIn order to strengthen his dictorial power, Stalin started the Great Purges (also known as “The Terror”) during which Stalin ordered the assassination of countless suspected political enemies. Others were sent to labor camps.
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Stalin's Cult of PersonalityStalin promoted Russian history and culture
Promoted a “Cult of Personality” – Stalin ordered the production and circulation of propaganda material portraying himself as a great national hero and “deity” (god-like figure) |