In "Bolshevik Myth" Alexander Berkman presents a detailed account of his experiences in Bolshevik Russia during the early 20th century. As a firsthand witness to the events that unfolded during the Russian Revolution, Berkman provides a candid and critical analysis of the Bolshevik regime and its impact on the Russian people.

The book offers a unique perspective on the realities of life under Lenin and his followers, shedding light on the repression, violence, and manipulation that characterized the early years of Soviet rule. Berkman's personal anecdotes and observations give readers a vivid sense of the fear and uncertainty that pervaded society during this tumultuous period.

While some may find Berkman's portrayal of the Bolsheviks to be overly harsh or biased, his insights are invaluable for understanding the complexities of revolutionary movements and the consequences of unchecked power. "Bolshevik Myth" serves as an important cautionary tale about the dangers of authoritarianism and the need for vigilance in the face of political extremism.

Overall, "Bolshevik Myth" is a thought-provoking and provocative read that challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about the Russian Revolution and its aftermath. Berkman's passionate critique of the Bolsheviks serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding democracy and individual freedoms in the face of ideological zealotry.

Book Description:
The Bolshevik Myth is a book by Alexander Berkman who with his partner Emma Goldman was deported from the USA under the 1918 Anarchist Exclusion Act and shipped to the young Soviet Russia. He describes his experiences in Bolshevik 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. This book is interesting to compare with Deportation: Its Meaning and Menace. Last Message to the People of America written by Goldman and Berkman on the eve of their deportation.