THE history of the Soviet Union had fewer black pages in its history than certain other countries, not least the US, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said in a speech.
It's a short article. The question I have is, who is he trying to convince? Himself?
Let's take a look at the Soviet Union. Revolution brought the deaths of the Czar and his family, as well as those that supported him. After Stalin came to power, the deaths by government (democide) were astronomical.
China, Cuba, and Iran also had their democidal moments immediately post revolution. Even France had its "Reign Of Terror".
But where did we read that Americans executed British soldiers and those that sympathized with them, immediately after the American Revolution was won?
If you want to use the American nation as a measuring stick, that's fine. There are some moments in our history that we were not the bright shining city on a hill, but nowhere (save the War Between The States) did Americans kill other Americans for their political beliefs, certainly not in the numbers that the USSR and other despotic regimes did.
Want numbers? Look here.
Really want to learn something? Peruse Dr. R.J. Rummel's work at the University of Hawaii. Do this, then come back here and tell us all how utterly horrible the United States has been throughout its short history.
Addendum:
Some people know first hand the influence Maoist ideology brings to a society and they do not like it. And when a Hollywood star that thinks it's chic to wear such apparel that glorifies murderous thugs like Mao (in their presence), they find out real quick just how offensive the apparel can be. Details here.
