Stalin is the leader of the Russians.
Total Threat Level: 5
Musical Theme Inspiration: The Song of the Volga Boatmen (collected by Mily Balakirev)
A long-time Bolshevik, he emerged from the power struggle following Lenin's death as the new leader of the Soviet Union, contrary to Lenin's wishes. He quickly implemented plans for the forced collectivization of agriculture, rapid industrialization, and a huge military buildup. These policies were made possible by a reign of state terror that led to millions of deaths. After repelling the Nazi invasion of World War II, which killed 20 million more Russians, Stalin was able to establish a hegemony over most of Eastern Europe that lasted nearly half a century before disintegrating Under Stalin, the Russians are a dangerous opponent. They are capable of aggressive expansion, but may fall behind in the development of cities and technology.