Abstract :
The paper describes the influence of politics on the life of Soviet mathematicians in Stalinʹs era 1928–1953, years that witnessed the full unfolding of the dictatorʹs power. A few years following Stalinʹs death are also covered. Various publications, private manuscripts, and recollections of my own experiences at the University of Leningrad served as sources. Leading themes include the administrative talent of Egorov, Lusinʹs School, and the genius of Kolmogorov.
