The trial of Bukharin

by George Katkov

Book by Katkov, George

255 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1969

Reviews

[gabe]

first two chapters not really necessary if you've read a bit about bukharins life, but the context leading up to the trial and the analysis of the trial itself was great. my favorite point being that Vyshinsky made up the elaborate lies rather than using actual points where ppl did 'counterrevolutionary' things cause it would highlight how ppl became disillusioned with Stalins way of doing thing, it was better to paint them as traitors from the get go than show how they moved away from his plans. great book

[Paul]

Solid and concise telling of the Bukharin tragedy.

What I learned: that period of history is as depressing as we all think, and while Bukharin admitted being "guilty" to the prosecutor Vyshinsky of counter-revolutionary activity, he was clever enough to do so in a way that proved he was guilty of no such thing.

I wonder how this 1969 book compares to more recent works? I'd like to read Stephen Cohen's book at some point.