Translated from the Russian by H. T. Willietts.

Stalin's monstrous regime was built on the most intricate secrecy and until now, little has been known about the inside workings of his leadership or his personal life. Edvard Radzinsky has been granted access to the Soviet State's archives including Stalin's personal archive and has uncovered many facts. He sheds light on Stalin's background, his growing ambition that led him to the top of the Communist party, the battle with Lenin, his dream to establish Communism throughout the world and his death, about which Radzinsky presents some new material. uncovered many facts.