The "Stalin era" refers to the period of Soviet history when Joseph Stalin was the leader, from the mid-1920s until his death in 1953. This time was marked by rapid industrialization, collectivization of agriculture, and significant political repression. The government implemented five-year plans to boost economic growth, but these often led to widespread famine and suffering, particularly in Ukraine. Stalin's rule was also characterized by a climate of fear, with the Great Purge of the late 1930s resulting in the execution and imprisonment of millions, including many members of the Communist Party. The era saw the establishment of a totalitarian state, where dissent was not tolerated, and propaganda was used to promote the regime's achievements and ideology.