Did Stalin despise his son Yakov, and if so, why?

Stalin's relationship with his eldest son Yakov was complex and strained. Although it's unclear whether Stalin actually despised Yakov, he definitely had a difficult time showing any kind of affection toward him.

One reason for Stalin's negative feelings toward Yakov may have been because he saw his son as weak and indecisive. Stalin himself was known for his ruthless and uncompromising nature, and he may have viewed Yakov's perceived weaknesses as a threat to his own image and authority.

Another factor that contributed to the strained relationship between Stalin and Yakov was the latter's decision to marry a Jewish woman, which was strongly opposed by Stalin due to his anti-Semitic beliefs. Yakov's wife was arrested and sent to a gulag, and Yakov himself was subjected to harsh treatment by the Soviet authorities.

The relationship between Stalin and Yakov continued to deteriorate over time, and Yakov eventually joined the Soviet army to prove himself to his father. Unfortunately, he was captured by the Germans during World War II and committed suicide while in custody, which only served to deepen Stalin's bitterness toward him.