Trotsky and the role of individuals in history: the thesis of the irreplaceable Lenin

Abstract

In Chapter XVI, “Rearming the party”, of Volume I of History of the Russian Revolution, Trotsky introduces the discussion on the role of individuals in history, questioning whether the revolution would have triumphed without Lenin. He argues that the opportunity would probably have been missed, highlighting the Bolshevik leader as an essential link in the chain of events. For his part, Deutscher raised questions about this interpretation and, relying on Plekhanov, criticized Trotsky, claiming that his approach was too subjectivist. The aim of this article is to analyze the theme of the role of the individual in history, based on the debate about Lenin’s role in the Russian Revolution. The article is structured in four parts. The first part presents Trotsky’s interpretation of Lenin’s role. The second part sets out Deutscher’s criticisms, based on his reading of Plekhanov. The third part discusses the fatalism present in the “traditional Marxist” conception. Finally, the fourth part argues that Trotsky’s interpretation is supported by the theory of uneven and combined development, as well as by the emphasis on the protagonism of the masses in struggle.