The Bolshevik Myth

The Bolshevik Myth (Diary 1920–1922) is a book by Alexander Berkman describing his experiences in Bolshevist Russia from 1920 to 1922, where he saw the aftermath of the Russian Revolution of 1917. Written in the form of a diary, The Bolshevik Myth describes how Berkman's initial enthusiasm for the revolution faded as he became disillusioned with the Bolsheviks and their suppression of all political dissent. The narrative of The Bolshevik Myth sta... more

The Bolshevik Myth (Diary 1920–1922) is a book by Alexander Berkman describing his experiences in Bolshevist Russia from 1920 to 1922, where he saw the aftermath of the Russian Revolution of 1917. Written in the form of a diary, The Bolshevik Myth describes how Berkman's initial enthusiasm for the revolution faded as he became disillusioned with the Bolsheviks and their suppression of all political dissent. The narrative of The Bolshevik Myth starts in December 1919, when Berkman and Emma Goldman were deported to the Soviet Union along with over two hundred other anarchists, socialists, and other leftists. Berkman describes conditions on board the transport ship, the Bufford. Berkman begins with great enthusiasm for the revolution. Unlike some of his fellow anarchists, he is willing to ignore the very different philosophy of the Bolsheviks. "From now on, we are all one – one in the sacred work of the Revolution", he tells a welcoming committee. "Socialists or anarchists – our... less