Cult of Personality Flashcards
1
Q
What are official histories?
A
work of history which is sponsored, authorised, or endorsed by its subject. The term is most commonly used for histories which are produced at a government’s behest
2
Q
How did Stalin use Official Histories to create the Cult of Stalin?
A
- exaggerated Stalin’s role during October Revolution
- exaggerated his closeness with Lenin
- ridiculed his former opponents
3
Q
What were 2 examples of official histories of Stalin?
A
- Short Course of History of All Union Communsit Party
- Joseph Stalin: A short Biography
4
Q
How was history faked?
A
- doctored photographs, creating paintings and films that created false picture of past
- e.g. photos with Lenin & Trotsky had Trotsky removed
5
Q
How did Stalin use Socialist Realist Art to present himself?
A
- as Lenin’s pupil - presented as faithfully carrying on work that Lenin had started
- by late 30’s used it to present himself as equal to Lenin and Marx - 2 men rather than Lenin alone led October Revolution
6
Q
In what other ways did Lenin create the cult of Stalin?
A
- Stalins birthday became national holiday marked with celebrations
- Christian symbolism replaced with communist symbolism
7
Q
Why was the cult of personality significant?
A
- emphasised wisdom and greatness of Stalin to Russian people
- turned into saint - people believed destiny of country safe because Lenin was in control
