Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

The rise of communism during the last century cast a deep shadow over global politics, and tensions continued even after the dissolution of the former Soviet Union in 1991. The Naked Communist by W. Cleon Skousen digs deeply into the origins, policies, and tactics of communism, beginning with the writings of Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, and the publication of the communist manifesto. They rewrote history on their own terms and promoted revolution and the class struggle. The 1917 revolution in Russia entrenched an oppressive communist regime. Marx and Engels had believed that strong central control was essential, a view later shared by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin, which amounted to dictatorship. Communist expansionism after World War II became an even more pressing threat in 1949, as the Soviet Union's newly acquired nuclear capability changed the balance of power, triggering the Cold War. In the same year, communists took over mainland China. The so-called Cold War that followed, Korea, Castro, and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 are also dissected. The book examines communist theory and its appeal to the public through the promise of peace, prosperity, and a classless society, with no belief in any God. Its wider aims of world domination and the destruction of capitalism are also exposed. Early communist and Marxist activities in America are featured, including communal living, Americans spying for Russia, and the rivalry of the space race.

W. Cleon Skousen points out that communism is more than just an economic system. While founded on lofty principles of equality, justice, and dignity, such promises were never fulfilled. This study of communism reveals how quickly ideology, no matter how well-intentioned, can go wrong, degenerating into a repressive and intolerant system of autocratic centralized control. The classless, stateless society remains a dream. The author invites readers to engage with the book thoughtfully and remain informed, while not taking freedom for granted. Written from a Christian and capitalistic perspective in an American context, The Naked Communist is a pivotal work on the subject. It carries a stern warning that the public should avoid complacency and stay aware of the ongoing threat. The writing style is concise, and the arguments advanced are logical, well-presented, and compelling. This detailed and painstakingly researched work unmasks communism in a manner that can be readily understood by a wide audience. It is backed by an extensive bibliography, notes, and index, and will serve as a textbook for future generations.