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Stalin's Terror vs. Hitler's Control
Stephen Kotkin contrasts the methods of Stalin and Hitler regarding their treatment of loyalists and officials. He highlights that while Stalin's regime indiscriminately purged even those who were loyal to him, Hitler maintained a level of control by not executing his upper officer corps. This segment delves into the implications of their respective terror tactics and the astonishing resilience of Stalin's system despite its self-destructive nature.
"The thing about Stalin's terror is the police are also murdered during the terror while they are doing the murdering. Hitler does not murder his upper officer corp. He doesn't like them. He retires th..."
The Nature of Stalin's Terror
Stephen Kotkin discusses the unique nature of Stalin's terror compared to Hitler's regime. He highlights how Stalin's purges extended even to loyalists within his ranks, showcasing a level of self-disruption within the Soviet system that is both astonishing and terrifying. Unlike Hitler, who primarily targeted his real enemies, Stalin's actions led to the execution of many who would have sacrificed themselves for the cause.
"The thing about Stalin's terror is the police are also murdered during the terror while they are doing the murdering. Hitler does not murder his upper officer corp. He doesn't like them. He retires th..."