Foundation for the History of Totalitarianism
Essay competition: The Nazi-Soviet Pact
The subject of the 2026-27 essay prize is the Nazi-Soviet Pact.
The pact has been called “the starting gun for the Second World War”. It allowed Hitler to take half of Poland without fear of Soviet opposition. For Stalin, it was part of a long-held strategy of wanting the “capitalist imperialist” Western powers to fight among themselves in the hope that this could lead to a communist revolution. Meanwhile he got half of Poland and other territories.
It has been called “The Devil’s Alliance” and a pivotal moment in 20th century history.
This essay competition is suitable for pupils who seek to widen their knowledge of 20th century history and enhance their university applications. Entries will be welcome from pupils in the sixth form in the academic year 2026-27.
Holodomor Resources
AT DAWN THEY CAMEby Giles Udy
Repression and Terror in the Soviet Union 1917-1953 Concise, fully illustrated with full timeline.
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The “Three Heroes of Tiananmen Square”
By Eleanor Li
Surviving two invasions: one Nazi and one Soviet
Daniel Finkelstein
Buchenwald Concentration Camp
Report by the British Parliamentary Delegation
Ten books about totalitarianism
Ten books on totalitarianism: masterpieces, best-sellers or both.
“Animal Farm” –Polish Samizdat
It was illegal to own a copy of Animal Farm under the communist regime in Poland.
