Vladimir Lenin, the driving force behind the 1917 Russian Revolution, led the Bolsheviks with a fierce intellect and unwavering commitment to Marxist ideals. Determined and uncompromising, he believed in using radical means to create a socialist society, implementing sweeping reforms like the nationalization of industry and land redistribution. Though his leadership brought profound change, it also involved suppressing opposition and using violence to maintain control, setting the stage for the authoritarian aspects of the Soviet state.