Legacy: Stalin | The Georgian Bandit | Episode 1 – Detailed Summary

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of Legacy, hosted by Afra Hersh and Peter Frankopan from Wondery, the spotlight is cast on one of history's most notorious figures: Joseph Dzihaussovich Stalin. The episode, titled "The Georgian Bandit," delves deep into Stalin's early life, revolutionary activities, personal tragedies, and the forging of his ruthless persona. Through a rich narrative, the hosts explore whether Stalin's legacy is as deservedly infamous as history remembers him.

Stalin's Early Life and Background

The episode begins by painting a vivid picture of Stalin's Georgian origins. Born Joseph Dzikashvili in December 1878 in Gori, Georgia, Stalin came from a modest background. His father, Besarian, worked as a cobbler, while his devout Eastern Orthodox mother, Ketevan, nurtured his early ambitions. Afra Hersh highlights the tumultuous family environment:

“His father was a cobbler. His mother, Ketevan, was very fond of him and called him Soso. But they are poor things, were stable in their family life until Besarian, Stalin's father, turned to drink and often became violent at home.” (07:12)

This early exposure to violence and instability likely influenced Stalin's hardened demeanor and later ruthless leadership style.

Revolutionary Awakening and Early Struggles

Stalin's revolutionary fervor ignited during his late teens and early twenties. After leaving the seminary before completing his final exams, Stalin immersed himself in radical ideologies, heavily influenced by Marx and Lenin. Peter Frankopan notes:

“He leaves the seminary before his final exams and he decides that he wants to lend his body and his effort to the struggle to break the system.” (13:51)

Stalin's dedication led him to various roles within the Bolshevik movement, including organizing strikes and overseeing labor actions in Batumi. His effectiveness in these roles earned him recognition but also led to his first arrest and exile to Siberia in 1903.

Personal Life and Tragedies

Amidst his revolutionary activities, Stalin's personal life unfolded with significant turmoil. In July 1906, he married Ketovan Svanidze, a seamstress from Tbilisi, marking a brief period of personal happiness. However, tragedy struck in November 1907 when Ketovan died, leaving Stalin deeply affected yet unmoved outwardly:

“Joseph's reluctance to a religious ceremony quickly melting under Ketevan's beguiling dark eyes. She was the family he always longed for. When Jakob was born, Joseph swore he would never abandon them like his own father did. Now he looks at his son... and knows that's a promise he can't keep.” (26:25)

Afra Hersh reflects on this loss:

“...these experiences, not just this one, but these kind of experiences that did make it easier for him to harden his heart.” (29:39)

This personal loss is portrayed as a pivotal moment that further entrenched Stalin's detachment and ruthless pursuit of power.

Path to Power and Image Building

As Stalin ascended within the Bolshevik ranks, he meticulously crafted his image as a strong, unwavering leader. In 1912, he adopted the name "Stalin," derived from the Russian word for steel, symbolizing his iron will:

“He is extremely conscious of his image. He's tough and that he's strong and that he's got vision.” (32:15)

Stalin's strategic approach to leadership involved minimizing his Georgian identity to present himself as a true Russian revolutionary, aligning with the broader internationalist goals of the Marxist-Leninist ideology.

Revolutionary Activities and Consolidation of Power

The episode details Stalin's relentless dedication to the Bolshevik cause, highlighting his role in organizing strikes, setting up the newspaper Pravda, and his selection onto the Central Committee. His involvement during the tumultuous periods leading up to the October Revolution is emphasized, showcasing his ability to navigate and manipulate the chaotic political landscape to his advantage.

Identity and Legacy

Afra Hersh delves into Stalin's complex relationship with his Georgian roots and his broader Russian identity. She posits that Stalin's detachment from his Georgian heritage was a calculated move to position himself for greater influence within the vast Russian Empire:

“He sees that there's a bigger destiny for him.” (34:01)

Peter Frankopan counters by emphasizing Stalin's inherent nature:

“...he's very determined to present an image of himself, and he's aware of that from the beginning.” (32:15)

This interplay highlights the dual facets of Stalin's persona: the calculated leader and the inherently ruthless individual.

Climactic Moments Leading to Revolution

As World War I rages, the episode transitions to the critical moments leading up to the Russian Revolution. Stalin's anticipation and strategic positioning are depicted, particularly his journey from Siberia back to Petrograd to seize his moment in the unfolding revolution:

“Stalin's disappointment festers... 'He won't forget this. He's going to continue his work in the Party, consolidate his power and authority. Then he'll get the respect he deserves.'” (40:10)

Afra Hersh juxtaposes Stalin's solitary struggle with Lenin's dramatic return, emphasizing the contrasting paths leaders took during the revolution:

“There's such a stark contrast between Lenin versus Stalin... his belief in his role in Russia's future, which also hangs in the balance.” (40:47)

Conclusion and Reflections

The episode concludes with reflections on Stalin's relentless ambition and the beginnings of his iron grip on power. Afra Hersh and Peter Frankopan discuss the trajectory that would lead Stalin from a revolutionary agitator to the tyrannical dictator responsible for millions of deaths. The hosts emphasize that Stalin's legacy, though infamous, cannot be forgotten, as his actions continue to influence geopolitical dynamics to this day.

Notable Quotes

• Afra Hersh: “...the magnitude of the mass murder and violence he unleashed had not fully sunk in until I did the research for this series...” (02:28)

• Peter Frankopan: “I think when it comes to megalomaniacs, what is it about these destructive figures that we find so attractive?” (03:48)

• Afra Hersh: “...understand how he became that person, how his character was formed, how he got to where he got and how he remained there for so long.” (08:17)

• Peter Frankopan: “What he wants is what will happen three weeks later for Lenin when the leader returns to Petrograd's Finland station to find it packed to the rafters.” (40:47)

Final Thoughts

Episode 1 of Legacy masterfully intertwines Stalin's personal and political journey, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of how his early experiences and relentless ambition shaped his path to becoming one of history's most feared dictators. The hosts balance factual narration with insightful analysis, providing a comprehensive overview that sets the stage for deeper explorations in subsequent episodes.