How Did Stalin Dehumanize Joseph Stalin

Years of western propaganda has dehumanised Stalin into a maniacal dictator with no regard to human life. Obviously, this is merely slander; his ruthlessness and brutality are often exaggerated. In fact, this propaganda makes Stalin seem like a cartoonish villain who only wants to gain more power for himself. The question that stands is what was Stalin’s personality really like? Stalin was very charismatic and easy to talk to according to Anna Louise Strong and other witnesses. He has a sense of humour too, once he invited the winners of the 1938 All-Union Competition, a pianist and violinist to the Kremlin to receive their 3000 rubble government grant. When he gave them the grant he quizzed them, “Now that you are capitalists will you recognize me on the street?”[2]. In addition, even his enemies noted his sense of humour. For example, Juho Kusti Paasikivi, a Finish representative who met Stalin during a particularly difficult time between their two counties noted

[4] In addition to his charisma he was also caring for those around him; he was also concerned for the people around him. During one of his nightly walks he asked his guards what he was paid and how often he got new uniforms when he found out they didn’t get new uniforms or paid very much, he ordered for them to get a raise and new uniforms twice a year.[5] Stalin was incorruptible and had no need for luxuries or wealth. He lived a very Spartan lifestyle; his home was a small wooden house, and an inventory of his possessions showed that he owned very little items of value, aside from a state-issued piano. His furniture was cheap and the armchairs had loose covers. His clothes consisted of a couple of ordinary suits, one of them in canvas, embroidered felt boots, a peasant’s sheepskin and of course his