Here are some key details about the book:
* Content: Ciliga's book provides a firsthand account of the Soviet Union during the 1920s and early 1930s, based on his own experiences as a member of the Communist Party and his witnessing of the Stalinist purges.
* Significance: It was one of the first critical accounts of the Soviet Union published in the West, offering a counter-narrative to the prevailing pro-Soviet sentiment of the time. It was a major influence on anti-communist thought and continues to be studied today as a valuable historical document.
* Author's Background: Ciliga's personal journey adds depth to the book. He joined the Communist Party in 1920, was imprisoned by the Soviets in 1930, and ultimately became disillusioned with Stalinism.
Other writings by Anton Ciliga:
* Ciliga was also a prolific journalist and writer, but his other works have not received the same level of recognition as "The Russian Enigma."
* He wrote numerous articles and essays, often about his political experiences and observations on the Soviet Union.
"The Russian Enigma" remains his most important and influential work. It offers a unique and insightful look at the realities of life in the Soviet Union during a critical period in history, making it an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the Soviet Union and the rise of Stalinism.