[July 27, 2014] Much has been written here in these pages about Socialism and its failure as an economic model (see links here, here, and here). It does function around the world as a strong political force and seems to be very prevalent even in democratic nations, especially in Europe in a milder form. It’s debasement of humans rings true wherever it manifests itself. On this date, July 27, 1943, premier and dictator Joseph Stalin issues order No. 277. Typical overly centralized fiat by a Communist, in this case to outlaw cowards.
Hard to believe one can dictate to people that they not be a coward. Of course, they cannot do so but leave it to Stalin to try. The translation generally reads:
“Panic makers and cowards must be liquidated on the spot. Not one step backward without orders from higher headquarters! Commanders…who abandon a position without an order from higher headquarters are traitors to the Fatherland.” – Joseph Stalin
The Soviets had experienced enormous setbacks from the early German attacks into the heartland. Stalin needed to motivate both the military and civilian population. Whether this order worked or not is unknown but it is known that the Russians held at both Leningrad and Stalingrad. The German army was eventually push back all the way to Berlin by the Soviet military.
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[The History Channel article on Order Number 277] http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/stalin-issues-order-no-227-outlawing-cowards