What kind of person should not be trusted and other wise lessons of Joseph Stalin

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Nowadays, it is customary to not take the weak into account...

Joseph Stalin, the preeminent leader of the Soviet Union from the mid-1920s until his death in 1953, remains a figure of enormous historical significance. Stalin’s personality and activities are highly controversial and continue to be hotly debated. Many consider him a great leader. Often considered a key player in the defeat of Nazi Germany during World War II, Stalin’s leadership style and policies led the country to victory in the Great Patriotic War. Others accuse him of genocide, terror, and famine. Either way, Joseph Stalin left an indelible mark on the pages of history.

Today's selection of the best quotes from Joseph Stalin:

1. Never trust a person who is afraid to tell you the truth to your face.

Honesty is the cornerstone of healthy and trusting relationships. When someone is afraid to tell the truth to someone’s face, it undermines the foundation of trust and respect. Such behavior can be a sign of personal shortcomings or hidden motives, making sincere communication and mutual understanding virtually impossible.

Fear of telling the truth often stems from insecurity or low self-esteem. People who are afraid to speak up or are unsure of their own beliefs may lie to avoid potential conflict or judgment. However, this behavior is ultimately more damaging because it undermines trust and creates an environment of suspicion and doubt.

2. It is not power that corrupts people, but the opposite – the most corrupted people are most drawn to power.

It is not power itself that makes people bad or corrupt, but rather those who are already corrupted who seek power. Often, people who are selfish, control-hungry, and manipulative actively seek political or social power.

In this case, power serves as a means to satisfy their personal interests and ambitions, rather than as a means to serve society. Power may attract many different types of personalities, but it also provides the opportunity to influence society and make the world a better place. So the question is not whether power corrupts people, but what are the goals and motives of those who wield it.

2. It doesn’t matter who votes, what matters is who counts the votes.

Honesty creates the foundation for any relationship. When people feel that they are being treated openly and honestly, they develop trust. People strive for honesty, which is the foundation of morality and ethical values. It emphasizes the importance of openness, responsibility, and respect for others.

4. A good life doesn't come for free.

These words emphasizethat a comfortable or prosperous life requires effort and hard work. Success or the life you desire is not easily achieved without dedication, persistence, or meaningful contribution.

5. The West with its imperialist cannibals is a hotbed of darkness, obscurantism and slavery.

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6. All great! All geniuses! But no one to have tea with.

One of Stalin's major achievements was the rapid industrialization of the Soviet Union. His ambitious five-year plans aimed to transform an agrarian society into an industrial powerhouse. Large-scale projects such as the Moscow Metro and the Dnieper Dam demonstrated the Soviet Union's ability to accomplish monumental feats in a short period.

7. You have to be a very brave person to be a coward in the Soviet Army.

Stalin's leadership during World War II is considered a turning point in history. Despite initial setbacks, the Soviet Union under Stalin's leadership became a key force in defeating Nazi Germany. The Battle of Stalingrad, in which the Red Army decisively turned the tide of the war, is a testament to Joseph Stalin's strategic acumen and the resilience of the Soviet people.

8. As history shows, there are no invincible armies.

No one is immune to defeat. Even the most powerful armies and empires in history have faced challenges and ultimately suffered setbacks or collapse. Military invincibility is therefore a fleeting concept.

9. A truce with the enemy is possible only after its destruction!

Joseph Stalin always took a hard line. He said that negotiations or peace with an enemy were possible only after defeating or destroying it. His leadership style was characterized by strong centralization of power and a ruthless approach to maintaining control.

10. I always thought that democracy is the power of the people, but then Comrade Roosevelt explained to me clearly that democracy is the power of the American people.

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11. If our enemies scold us, it means we are doing everything right.

Joseph Stalin's legacy is a complex tapestry of achievements and atrocities. Although he played a key role in leading the Soviet Union to victory over Nazi Germany, his methods and policies resulted in enormous human suffering.

12. Personnel decide everything.

These words emphasize the importance of people and leadership in determining results. It is the competence of those in leadership positions that plays a decisive role in shaping the direction and success of an organization or country.

13. Nowadays, it is not customary to take the weak into account; only the strong are taken into account.

In today's world, attention and respect are usually given to the stronger and more successful people. In any society, great importance is attached to achievements, status and influence. This implies a competitive and sometimes ruthless approach to international relations, where power is the determining factor.

However, it is important to remember that success is not always measured by external indicators, and everyone can have their own path to happiness, regardless of whether it is "strong" or "weak" by generally accepted standards.

14. Each problem has a last name, first name, and patronymic.

Problems are not abstract or impersonal, but are created or caused by specific people. This quote emphasizes the personal responsibility of each person in the work they do.

Joseph Stalin remains a controversial figure, forcing historians and scholars to grapple with the dual nature of his influence on the course of history.

I wonder what you think about these statements? Which quote did you like the most? Share in the comments.