When examining the historical record of figures such as Stalin and Lenin, the first task is to seek objective information and not allow one's understanding to be colored by prejudice and superficial opinions spread by Western media and education systems. When researching Stalin, his upbringing, his character, and his deeds, it becomes clear that there is an enormous disparity between the results he achieved for his country and the despicable portrait we have been given. This book goes back to the contemporary record, the words of people who knew him and observed him at his work, to identify what his goals were and were not, and what he accomplished in his 30 years as General Secretary of the CPSU.