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How did Trotsky's grandson grow up in war and eventually become a well-known figure in Mexico?
In the long course of history, some people's family backgrounds make them shine even more brightly in difficult circumstances. Trotsky's grandson Esteban Volkov (formerly known as Vesevold Volkov) is a living example. His growth was filled with war, exile and many challenges, but in the end, he successfully worked his way out and became a well-known figure in Mexico.
Rich family background
Esteban’s story begins with his grandfather, Leon Trotsky. Trotsky was one of the key figures of the Russian Revolution and was later forced into exile due to his power struggle with Stalin. Trotsky's daughter, Zinaida Volkova, grew up in turbulent times and shouldered the responsibility of the family's revolution since she was a child.
Sinaida once said: "We are the children of the revolution, and we bear the unfinished dreams of our parents."
Sinaida's life was not smooth. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she and her sister were raised by her grandparents. Her life was full of difficulties and setbacks, especially the fact that both of her husbands were killed in the Great Purge, which put a heavy psychological burden on her. In 1931, after she was allowed to travel to Türkiye to meet her father, she took her young son with her, but her daughter had to stay in Russia.
Journey from the Persian Gulf to Mexico
Sinaida suffered from tuberculosis while living in Switzerland, and her condition became increasingly serious. In 1933, she committed suicide in Germany, leaving behind Esteban, who was only 6 years old at the time. This young boy felt the cruelty of the world due to his mother's tragedy, but his life story has just begun.
After Sinaida's death, Esteban begins a difficult journey, following in his mother's footsteps.
New Hope: Heading to Mexico
In 1940, when he was only 14 years old, Esteban immigrated to Mexico with his grandfather, Trotsky. In this new country, Esteban faced the challenge of language barrier and cultural differences. In the end, he chose to learn French and forgot the Russian he had learned in his childhood.
Although his living environment has changed, Esteban has always had deep feelings for his family's revolutionary history. Over time, Esteban not only became an engineer but also participated in several social movements and cultural activities, taking pride in his willingness to help others.
Family and Dedication
In Mexico, Esteban started a family and had four daughters. One of his daughters, Nora Volkow, became director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Esteban often proudly mentioned his daughter's achievements in the medical field, which undoubtedly gave him greater confidence and strength.
Esteban once said: "My family history makes me cherish this land even more. This is my unique capital."
Witnesses of the times
After many wars and exiles, Esteban finally found his footing in Mexico. He became part of the local culture and history and preserved Trotsky's legacy, with his home in the Trotsky Museum in Mexico City attracting countless visitors.
Esteban Volkov, full of historical traces, passed away in 2023 at the age of 97. His life was not only the inheritance of his family, but also the continuation of the revolutionary spirit. He did not give in in the face of difficulties and proved the value of his existence with actions.
His story is not only a review of bloodline, but also a revelation for the future. Can we learn lessons from these histories and strive for our own future?
