The American Woman who Survived Stalin's Gulags | Soviet Union, Stalinism, Great Purges

Margaret Verner, an American, was arrested in the Soviet Union on false charges of treason. She endured harsh conditions in Gorky Prison and various gulags, facing interrogations, labor, and deprivation. Despite the brutality, she formed bonds with fellow prisoners. The death of Stalin brought some hope for change. Her story highlights the resilience and survival of prisoners in Stalinist Russia.

What was the reason for Margaret Verner's arrest by the NKVD?

• She was caught stealing.

• She was accused of treason.

• She was a spy.

• She was involved in a protest.

How did Margaret identify the NKVD men as her enemies?

• They wore uniforms.

• They were carrying weapons.

• They called her 'Comrade Verner'.

• They used the term 'Citizen Verner'.

What was the condition of Margaret's cell in Gorky Prison?

• It was shared with multiple prisoners.

• It was dark and had a tiny barred window.

• It had a large window with a view.

• It was spacious and clean.

Who was Margaret's cellmate in Gorky Prison?

• A young girl named Sasha.

• A Russian guard.

• An elderly woman named Anastasia.

• A fellow American prisoner.

What was the informal rule in the transitional camp where Margaret was sent?

• It was ruled by the prisoners' council.

• It was ruled by a group of criminals.

• It was ruled by the camp director.

• It was ruled by the guards.

What was Margaret's first task in the lumber camp?

• Cleaning the barracks.

• Cooking for the prisoners.

• Hauling large boxes of sawdust.

• Guarding the camp entrance.

How did the prisoners in the lumber camp manage to sleep?

• On comfortable beds with blankets.

• On wooden bunks with wood shavings as mattresses.

• On the floor with no bedding.

• In sleeping bags provided by the camp.

What significant event occurred in 1953 that affected the prisoners?

• A new camp director was appointed.

• Joseph Stalin died.

• Margaret was released.

• The camp was closed.

How did the prisoners react to the news of Stalin's death?

• With indifference.

• With fear and anxiety.

• With mass jubilation and celebration.

• With great sorrow.

What helped Margaret survive in the Siberian camp?

• Her skills in manual labor.

• Food packages from her family.

• Her friendship with the guards.

• Her ability to escape.