 |
Stark contrast with Yeltsin |
|
|
Non-charismatic, business-like leader: a doer, not a talker |
|
|
Tough image reinforced by the pledge to “rub them [the Chechen
rebels] out, even in a shit-house” |
|
|
Youthful, physically fit (judo wrestler), energetic leader (this
endeared him to women, in particular) |
|
|
His secret service roots were an advantage: the KGB and FSB are
perceived by society as less tainted with corruption than other
state bodies |
|
|
The Kremlin hurled the full weight of government-friendly media
behind Putin |
|
|
The message his public words and actions conveyed to the people |
