Animal Farm by George Orwell, what is the political history behind this book ?

Question

Napoleon symbolizes Stalin, the Russian dictator but what does Snowball symbolizes ?
Also what is the difference and similarity between their leadership qualities

Answer 1

LENIN
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Snowball: Orwell describes Snowball as a pig very similar to Napoleon— at least in the early stages. Both pigs wanted a leadership position in the "new" economic and political system (which is actually contradictory to the whole supposed system of equality). But as time goes on, both eventually realize that one of them will have to step down. Orwell says that the two were always arguing. "Snowball and Napoleon were by far the most active in the debates. But it was noticed that these two were never in agreement: whatever suggestion either of them made, the other could be counted to oppose it." Later, Orwell makes the case stronger. "These two disagreed at every point disagreement was possible."

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Read these articles as well:

http://www.sauguscenturions.com/klipfel/myersorwell.html

http://www.bookwolf.com/Free_Booknotes/Animal_Farm_by_George_Orwell/Symbolism-_Animal_Farm_/symbolism-_animal_farm_.html

Answer 2

Snowball is "Trotsky" who was later betrayed and exiled by Stalin.
The similarity is in their desire to be independant and greater than humans.
The difference is in their approach: while Snowball (Trotsky) believes in a universal animal revolutionan and an all out spread of this doctrine, Napoleon (Stalin) believes in a gradual power-assembling grind, using tactics such as heavy workload, economic means, absolute power, and benefiting from corruption.
Also, Snowball would never trade with humans. Napoleon however would, to achieve his ends.
Hope this helped ; )

Also, Snowball is NOT Lenin. Lenin is the pig that died: Major!
Major died and the revolution had two options. Stalin (Napoleon) beat Trotsky (Snowball) to it. Check wikipedia for it too.