Joseph Stalin, the ruthless dictator who ruled the Soviet Union from 1924 to 1953, remains the most fearsome and oppressive figure in human history. His reign of terror, known as the Great Purge, witnessed the elimination of millions of his own people, including members of the Communist Party, ethnic minorities, and anyone perceived as a threat to his authority. Stalin's paranoia and absolute control extended to all aspects of Soviet life, from economic policies to the arts and personal liberties. His policies led to widespread famine, poverty, and human suffering, leaving an enduring legacy of fear and oppression that continues to haunt Russia today.
