Why is “Trotskyist” still used as an insult on the Left? How did a revolutionary who helped build a workers’ state become its most dangerous enemy? And why do Stalin’s statues crumble while Trotsky’s ideas refuse to die? This book takes you on a gripping, accessible, and darkly funny journey through the life, ideas, and legacy of Leon Trotsky — without requiring a degree in political theory or a tolerance for party-meeting jargon. Inside you’ll find: A vivid biography of Trotsky: from Siberian exile to the Winter Palace, and finally to the barricaded house in Mexico Clear explanations of his major theories: Permanent Revolution, the Transitional Program, and why socialism must stay democratic Sharp insights into Trotsky’s books and battles: History of the Russian Revolution, The Revolution Betrayed, and more A revealing look at why “Trotskyist” became a curse word — and why Trotskyists wear it like a badge The surprising afterlife of Trotsky: in activism, pop culture, memes, and modern radical movements This is Trotsky for readers who dislike dense textbooks, worship-style hagiographies, or political gaslighting. It’s a story about ideas that survived attempts to kill them — ideas that continue to challenge authoritarianism and inspire new generations of socialists, radicals, and critics of power. Whether you admire Trotsky or think Trotskyists are the reason every left-wing meeting lasts three hours too long… this book will help you understand why the man and his message still matter. For readers of history, politics, revolution — and anyone curious why some ghosts refuse to rest.
