Joseph Stalin Joseph Stalin is seen as one of the most contriversal leaders in world history. Between 1928 and 1941 he transformed the Soviet Union into a modern superpower. His rule is characterized by collectivized agriculture, rapid industrialization, great purges and the extermination of opposition. He was a very effecive leader as an industrial leader. Stalin can be seen as a great industrial leader for the Soviet Union but as a terrible leader for the people. He held the title of a totalitarian leader beause he had all or total power. He disrupted the Soviet Union’s economy for years even to modern day. Sta