Stalin’s Legacy: Analyzing the Impact of His Leadership on Soviet Society and Global Politics

Introduction

Joseph Stalin, one of the most significant figures in 20th-century history, has left a complex and controversial legacy. His leadership from the mid-1920s until his death in 1953 reshaped Soviet society and had profound implications for global politics, particularly during the Cold War. This paper aims to examine the dual aspects of Stalin’s legacy, focusing on the social transformations within the Soviet Union and the geopolitical ramifications of his policies. By analyzing these dimensions, we can better understand how Stalin’s rule influenced not only the trajectory of Soviet society but also the broader landscape of international relations.

Main Body

Stalin’s leadership is characterized by a series of sweeping changes that redefined Soviet society. One of the most notable transformations was the implementation of rapid industrialization through the Five-Year Plans, which began in