Hitler, Stalin, and Mussolini: Totalitarianism in the Twentieth Century

by Bruce F. Pauley

Like its predecessor, one of the most popular volumes in our European History Series, the second edition of Bruce Pauley's inventive work provides a unique interpretive comparison of the economics, propaganda, culture, and education and healthcare systems of all three forms of European totalitarianism. Punctuated by vivid portraits of the dictators' youths, early careers, personal relationships, management styles, and cults of personality, the second edition of this fascinating book features a greatly expanded photographic essay as well as a consideration of the very latest scholarship. This succinct and adept description of probably the most frightening phenomenon of the twentieth century remains ideal for use in courses on German, European, and World History. Its broad interdisciplinary scope also makes it an excellent choice of supplementary reading for courses in Government, International Relations, economics, sociology, women's studies, and ethics.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, College

313 pages, Paperback

First published January 24, 1997

Reviews

[George Fairhurst · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think that this book suffers from being a product of its time, the late 90s. Pauley sets out for a brief comparative history of Italy, Russia and Germany during the 1917-45 (and beyond for Russia) period. It's writing is sometimes a little odd, I found myself having to repeat a few sentences here and there, but it is well researched, clearly.

However, and this was my abiding thought throughout, the actual comparative part was rather brief bar a very welcome Lessons and Prospects chapter.

[Meaningless · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 villains in the twentieth century must find a way from their humble beginnings to rise up to rule over a rule they end up destroying, along with neighboring countries. Join these unlikely scumbags as Bruce Pauley describes in detail how they rose to power which ultimately ended in their own self-destructions.

Each chapter is structured around these 3 goobers, relating how similar or different they are in the chapter's topic. This keeps it fresh and interesting.

[Gabriela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this as a required text for one of my history classes, it was honestly pretty good and entertaining. While conveying facts it still had a few hilarious small jabs at these three men all while giving important historical context.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. Scary how this compares to things today.