The Soviet-Polish War and Its Legacy: Lenin's Defeat and the Rise of Stalinism.

"The Soviet-Polish War and Its Legacy: Lenin's Defeat and the Rise of Stalinism" by Peter Whitewood explores the significance of the Soviet-Polish War during the Russian Civil War and its impact on early Soviet relations with neighboring states. The book argues that the war heightened the Bolsheviks' fears of future conflicts and played a role in the emergence of Stalinism. It delves into the perceptions and suspicions of both sides, emphasizing the Bolsheviks' belief that Poland was influenced by Britain and France. The narrative extends to the years of rapid industrialization and collectivization, with the author asserting that the perceived military threat from Poland influenced these policies. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of Soviet-Polish relations and their lasting consequences. While the research did not cover trade union leaders' involvement in foreign affairs, historians may find it useful to compare Whitewood's findings with other works on the topic. [Extracted from the article]