In 'Lenin', Victor Sebestyen delivers a compelling portrait of one of history's most enigmatic figures. The book explores the tension between Lenin’s revolutionary ideals and the brutal reality of power. Sebestyen sheds light on the intricate tapestry of Lenin's life, revealing the personal struggles and strategic genius behind the Bolshevik revolution. Through vivid storytelling, readers are drawn into the tumultuous era that shaped modern Russia. This gripping narrative invites readers to reconsider the legacy of a man who changed the course of history.
By Victor Sebestyen
Published: 2018
""Revolution does not happen when society is ready for it, but when an individual seizes the moment to ignite change.""
Victor Sebestyen's riveting biography of Vladimir Ilyich Lenin—the first major biography in English in nearly two decades—is not only a political examination of one of the most important historical figures of the twentieth century but also a fascinating portrait of Lenin the man. Brought up in comfort and with a passion for hunting and fishing, chess, and the English classics, Lenin was radicalized after the execution of his brother in 1887. Sebestyen traces the story from Lenin's early years to his long exile in Europe and return to Petrograd in 1917 to lead the first Communist revolution in history. Uniquely, Sebestyen has discovered that throughout Lenin's life his closest relationships were with his mother, his sisters, his wife, and his mistress. The long-suppressed story told here of the love triangle that Lenin had with his wife, Nadezhda Krupskaya, and his beautiful, married mistress and comrade, Inessa Armand, reveals a more complicated character than that of the coldly one-dimensional leader of the Bolshevik Revolution. With Lenin's personal papers and those of other leading political figures now available, Sebestyen gives is new details that bring to life the dramatic and gripping story of how Lenin seized power in a coup and ran his revolutionary state. The product of a violent, tyrannical, and corrupt Russia, he chillingly authorized the deaths of thousands of people and created a system based on the idea that political terror against opponents was justified for a greater ideal. An old comrade what had once admired him said that Lenin "desired the good . . . but created evil." This included his invention of Stalin, who would take Lenin's system of the gulag and the secret police to horrifying new heights. In Lenin, Victor Sebestyen has written a brilliant portrait of this dictator as a complex and ruthless figure, and he also brings to light important new revelations about the Russian Revolution, a pivotal point in modern history. (With 16 pages of black-and-white photographs)
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
Doris Kearns Goodwin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American biographer and historian, best known for her in-depth explorations of U.S. presidents. Her notable works include Team of Rivals, which inspired the film Lincoln, and The Bully Pulpit. Goodwin’s expertise in American political history has made her a sought-after commentator on leadership and governance. She has won several prestigious awards for her work and continues to be an influential voice in historical scholarship. Goodwin is also a frequent guest on television news programs and documentaries.
Ben Horowitz is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author, best known for co-founding the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. He made significant contributions to the tech industry through his leadership roles at Netscape and as co-founder of the software company Opsware, which was later acquired by Hewlett-Packard. Horowitz is celebrated for his insightful business book, "The Hard Thing About Hard Things," which provides candid advice on the challenges of entrepreneurship. His follow-up book, "What You Do Is Who You Are," explores the importance of company culture in business success. Horowitz's works are highly regarded for their practical wisdom and have influenced countless leaders in the tech and business communities.
Donald Trump is a prominent American businessman, television personality, and politician who served as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. Prior to his presidency, he gained fame as a real estate mogul and the host of the reality TV show "The Apprentice." In the realm of literature, Trump has authored several best-selling books, including "The Art of the Deal," which offers insights into his business strategies and philosophies. His literary contributions reflect his larger-than-life persona and business acumen, influencing both aspiring entrepreneurs and political enthusiasts. Despite his polarizing tenure, Trump's impact on American politics and popular culture remains significant.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
Showing 8 of 10 related collections
“"Revolution does not happen when society is ready for it, but when an individual seizes the moment to ignite change."”
Lenin
By Victor Sebestyen
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Victor Sebestyen is a British historian and author, renowned for his works on modern history, particularly regarding Eastern Europe and the Cold War. He is best known for his books 'Revolution 1989: The Fall of the Soviet Empire', which offers an in-depth analysis of the events that changed the face of Eastern Europe, and 'Twelve Days: The Story of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution', a detailed exploration of a pivotal moment in Hungary's history. Sebestyen's writing style is characterized by meticulous research, engaging narrative, and a deep understanding of the political and social dynamics of the region. His ability to bring historical events to life has garnered him critical acclaim and a loyal readership.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
No summary available
Dive into the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela as chronicled by Barry Denenberg. This captivating biography unveils the journey of a boy from a small South African village to a global symbol of peace and resilience. Discover how Mandela's relentless fight against apartheid, his years of imprisonment, and his incredible leadership transformed a nation. With heart-wrenching challenges and triumphant victories, this story inspires hope and underscores the power of forgiveness. Join Denenberg in exploring the legacy of a man who changed the world, and be prepared to rethink justice and humanity.
In 'Catherine the Great,' Robert K. Massie unveils the remarkable life of one of history's most intriguing rulers. From her humble beginnings as a German princess to becoming Empress of Russia, Catherine's journey is filled with bold ambition and sweeping reforms. Discover how she navigated the treacherous waters of love, power, and politics in a male-dominated world. Massie's masterful storytelling reveals the complexity of Catherine's character—she was both a passionate lover and a shrewd strategist. This biography not only chronicles her reign but also invites readers to explore the legacy of a woman who shaped an empire.
In 'The Code of the Extraordinary Mind,' Vishen Lakhiani challenges conventional beliefs and societal norms to empower individuals to create their own reality. Discover how to break free from mental limitations and embrace a new framework for personal growth, happiness, and success. Through captivating anecdotes and practical exercises, the author unravels the secrets to unorthodox thinking and transformative living. This thought-provoking guide invites readers to question their programming and redefine what is possible. Are you ready to unlock your extraordinary potential?
In 'Jack Kennedy,' Chris Matthews unveils the charismatic life of John F. Kennedy, diving deep into the personal and political dynamics that shaped an American icon. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Matthews explores Kennedy's rise from a privileged background to the heights of presidential power. Readers will discover the complexities of his character, including triumphs, scandals, and the ever-present shadow of mortality. This biography not only chronicles historic events but also captures the essence of a man who inspired a generation. What secrets lie behind the charm of Camelot, and how did they define a nation?
In 'Leading Minds', Howard E. Gardner explores the intricacies of creativity and genius through the lens of psychological theory. He delves into the minds of influential leaders across cultures and epochs, revealing how they think and what drives their innovation. Gardner presents a compelling case for the interplay of personality, culture, and values in shaping extraordinary leaders. With a blend of biography and analysis, the book invites readers to ponder what truly defines greatness in leadership. This thought-provoking journey promises to inspire and challenge your understanding of influence and creativity.
In 'Napoleon,' Vincent Cronin unveils the captivating life of one of history's most enigmatic figures. Through vivid storytelling, readers are drawn into the rise of a young Corsican soldier to the heights of power as Emperor of the French. Cronin delves into Napoleon's complex personality, revealing his ambitious dreams and tragic flaws. As the narrative unfolds, it explores his military genius and the profound impact of his policies on Europe. This gripping biography not only chronicles a man's legacy but also poses questions about ambition, leadership, and the tides of history.
In 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini, a young boy named Amir grapples with guilt and redemption against the backdrop of a war-torn Afghanistan. The story unfolds the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and the ties of family as Amir navigates through his tumultuous childhood and the haunting shadows of his past. A fateful kite-flying contest sets off a chain of events that alters lives forever, revealing deep-seated societal divides and personal failures. As Amir returns to his homeland, he embarks on a quest to confront his fears and seek forgiveness, offering a moving exploration of love and loss. With rich characters and a poignant narrative, this tale beckons readers to ponder the true meaning of atonement.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
