http://nedmartin.org/amused/communist-mario#exhibit-a

exhibit D is my personal favorite, and i've always BS'd with my friends about this very conspiracy theory. you look at the facts and decide for yourself. and yes in the original game he really does lower a flag of peace and raise a soviet red star at each castle.

SR i included you in this thread because your forum name and avatar made me think of it. also being a member of this games USSR lead by maggio i thought you might have some good insight (you were a member of that nation right?)