Perhaps no figure in Russian history is better known than Joseph Stalin. A highly controversial character, Stalin was a member of the powerful 'Big Three' during World War II as Russia played a major role in repelling the Nazi invasion of Europe. As leader of Russia his policies had a drastic impact on the people he ruled and almost 60 years after his death attitudes towards him in Russia are mixed; some view Stalin as a tyrant whose policies caused the death of millions, while others regard him as a capable leader. But what was Stalin really like and what was his legacy to Russia? This fascinating collection of programmes, produced by Russian Television, provides a remarkable insight into his life. Hear from Stalin's granddaughter about what he was like in private, learn the story of Stalin's particularly troubled upbringing, discover the influential role he played in the development of the infamous Soviet film industry and hear the truth behind the plots to take his life, including the German reconnaissance mission of 1944.
