Stalin's Great Terror and Totalitarianism

The video discusses how Russian President Vladimir Putin is attempting to rehabilitate Joseph Stalin's image to legitimize his own authoritarian rule. It covers Stalin's Great Terror, where millions were arrested, tortured, and sent to gulags. The video highlights the widespread impact of Stalin's regime on ordinary citizens and political figures alike. Despite the official end of the Great Terror, political repression continued until Stalin's death. The video warns of the dangers of totalitarian leaders and questions Putin's potential to follow in Stalin's footsteps.

What is one reason Vladimir Putin seeks to rehabilitate Joseph Stalin's image?

• To gain legitimacy for his authoritarian rule

• To improve Russia's economy

• To promote democracy in Russia

• To strengthen ties with Western countries

What was the primary goal of Joseph Stalin's Great Terror?

• To improve the Soviet economy

• To eliminate perceived dissent and enforce loyalty

• To establish diplomatic relations with the West

• To expand Soviet territory

During the Great Terror, what was the fate of most people sent to the gulags?

• They were released after a short time

• They were sent to work in factories

• They were given high-ranking positions in the government

• They died from harsh conditions or were executed

Who were the primary targets of Stalin's Great Terror?

• Only high-ranking officials

• Only foreign spies

• Only military personnel

• Ordinary workers, peasants, and party officials

What happened to the political terror after the official end of the Great Terror in 1938?

• It completely stopped

• It continued until Stalin's death

• It was replaced by economic reforms

• It was limited to military personnel

How did Stalin personally contribute to the Great Terror?

• He was unaware of the terror

• He signed off on execution lists and orchestrated the terror

• He opposed the actions of the NKVD

• He focused solely on economic policies

What was the population of the gulags before Stalin's death in 1953?

• Less than 1 million

• Over 2.5 million

• Exactly 3 million

• Around 1.5 million

What is a key warning highlighted in the discussion of totalitarian leadership?

• The need for international alliances

• The importance of military strength

• The dangers of leaders with no regard for law or rights

• The benefits of a strong economy

What is the potential risk of Putin's glorification of Stalin's image?

• Improved relations with the West

• Repeating the brutal actions of Stalin

• Economic prosperity

• Increased political freedom

What does the transcript suggest about the nature of totalitarian leaders?

• They focus on environmental issues

• They often disregard the rule of law

• They prioritize human rights

• They promote global peace