The Drama of the Decisions of 1939

Abstract

The world conflagration started in the year 1939. Prewar attempts to extinguish its first sparks had proved unsuccessful. Class egoism had ruled the day. Paying careful attention to Germany's aggression in Europe, the Soviet leadership became increasingly aware that it would have to face a fierce, armed struggle with a powerful, experienced, and merciless adversary. But up to the last moment, it deluded itself that, if it did not provoke Hitler, war could be avoided.