In its simplest sense, the statement highlights the power of printed material as a potent tool for political parties. It underscores how written words on paper can shape opinions and influence large groups of people effectively.
The deeper meaning of this quote reveals the strategic importance that printed materials had in spreading ideas and propaganda during Stalin's era. Print allowed for mass distribution of messages, ensuring wide dissemination and retention of information. This method was crucial in building support among a largely illiterate population by making political ideology accessible through newspapers, books, and pamphlets. It also served to consolidate power by controlling the narrative and silencing dissenting voices.
Joseph Stalin, the author of this quote, was the leader of the Soviet Union from the mid-1920s until his death in 1953. As a prominent figure during the rise of communism in Russia, he understood the critical role that media played in shaping society and maintaining control over it. His statement reflects his recognition of print as an essential means to propagate his regime's ideology and policies effectively.
