Professor James Harris, University of Leeds

In this film, Professor James Harris (University of Leeds) examines Stalin and the Soviet preparations for global war. The reasons why Stalin agreed the Nazi-Soviet pact are explored as are Stalin’s response to invasion in 1941. Professor Harris addresses the impact the war had on the USSR and how that affected Stalin’s personal power and authority. He finishes with how the USSR developed following the war.

* This video contains images of extreme violence which some viewers may find distressing. Please use viewer discretion.