Lenin, Vladimir Il’ich (1870–1924)

Iskra [Spark]

Leipzig: 1900. First edition. Fair. Item #18

The first paper of the Russian Social Democracy in Russia, it was also illegal. It was founded by V. I. Lenin in 1900, and played a decisive role in the formation of a revolutionary Marxist party of the working class in Russia. Iskra's first issue appeared in Leipzig in December 1900, the following issues being brought out in Munich, and then beginning with July 1902 -- in London, and after the spring of 1903 -- in Geneva.

The first editorial board of Iskra, along with Lenin, held five future Mensheviks: Plekhanov, Martov, Axelrod, Potresov and Vera Zasulich. On Lenin's initiative, the editorial staff drew up a draft of the Party's Programme (published in Iskra No. 21), and prepared the Second Congress of the R.S.D.L.P..

Soon after the Second Congress, the Mensheviks, supported by Plekhanov, won control of Iskra, beginning with issue No. 52.

Folio (30.5 x 44.5 cm). SCARCE in such condition.

Sold