[Rashputin]

Putin and Solzhenitsyn very publicly agreed that Stalin was a ruthless madman who pulled Russia up by it's bootstraps but who also slaughtered millions of Russians for no reason (only a Russian could think, "on the one hand, but on the other . . .", about Stalin).

They also very publicly agreed Russia has a destiny that requires authoritarian leadership, Christian values, and predominently Slavic citizens, to fulfill. That's why Putin asked lawmakers in Russia to make Solzhenitsyn required reading in High Schools and they did so.

Putin rides propaganda about him being like Stalin to a lot of little victories, though, so I'm sure he doesn't mind a bit.

[elhombrelibre]

There is no reason to believe that Solzhenitsyn would be a Putinista. He loved the Russian people, not this self-serving narcissistic, statist crank.

[No One Special]

So on net was Stalin a plus or a minus for Russia. How do you figure Putin would answer that question? How do you figure Solzenhitsyn would answer?

[No One Special]

I’m curious. Do you have a Russian heritage? I’d be interested in hearing about it if you wish.

[No One Special]

(only a Russian could think, "on the one hand, but on the other . . .", about Stalin)

Only a Russian? Why do you say that?

[No One Special]

Solzhenitsyn does believe in strong leadership, just not from the state, but from the church, and I doubt he would use the word authoritarian. He would wish people would follow the strictures of the church on their own.