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dated March 6,1953: Stalin on the Verge

A Moscow Radio bulletin on Marshal Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin said his condition was "graver" and collapse had occurred. His pulse was 120, (normal is 72), pallor had increased, he was breathing with difficulty, and his heart had deteriorated. The bulletin said: "At 8 a.m., symptoms of sharp deficiency of the blood pumping system were observed (a collapse)." For hours, Stalin had been in deep coma, with oxygen being pumped into his lungs to keep the flicker of life burning. But no Soviet source gave any hint to support speculation that their leader was already dead. More details from the bulletin: "In addition to the cerebral haemorrhage, there has now been a sharp disturbance of the heart functions. His serious breathing trouble responded only with great difficulty to appropriate therapy. An electro-cardiogram at 11.00 (Moscow Time) showed sharp disturbance of blood circulation in the coronary arteries of the heart accompanied by changes in the sections of the back wall of the heart. At 11.30 a.m., a second heavy collapse occurred which was overcome with great difficulty by appropriate medical measures. Later, the disturbances in heart and blood circulation somewhat diminished, although the general condition of the patient continues to remain extremely serious. At 16.00 hours, the maximal blood pressure was 160 and 100 minimal, and pulse was 120 per minute arrhythmic. Treatment is being mainly applied to fighting the disturbances of respiration and blood circulation, particularly coronary blood circulation," Pravda said. "In this unhappy time, every Soviet man of fervent feeling adheres to the Government. The community has confidence in the Party, and the entire Soviet people will show the greatest unity, fortitude, and vigilance."

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• The Hindu Crossword No. 7613
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• dated March 6,1953: Stalin on the Verge
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