chap 2.1: Reasons for the rise of Stalin

Question 1

reasons for the rise of Stalin?

Answer 1

• —> Non-disclosure of Lenin’s testament
• —> Trotsky’s unpopularity
• —> Stalin’s manipulation

Question 2

non-disclosure of lenin’s testament

Answer 2

• —> Lenin was ill
• —> he was suspicious of Stalin’s character and ambitions
• —> urged that Stalin be removed as secretary-general in his will
• —> Lenin died
• —> party ignored Lenin’s warning
• —> they believed that Trotsky was a greater threat
• —> they felt there was no need to remove Stalin
• —> The communist party prevented Lenin’s testament from being made public as it had criticized the other party leaders
• —> Stalin able to keep his position
• —> able to assign his supporters to important positions

Question 3

Trotsky’s unpopularity ( Red army )

Answer 3

• —> Trotsky was the head of the Red Army
• —> powerful
• —> Lenin’s right-hand man
• —> seen as the main threat
• —> unpopular
• —> members shifted attention to him, instead of Stalin
• —> Stalin formed Troika alliance with Kamenev and Zinoviev to remove Trotsky

Question 4

Trotsky unpopularity (personality)

Answer 4

• —> Trotsky was outspoken, seen as arrogant
• —> he clashed with Lenin & communist party on several occasions
• —> openly criticized Lenin’s new economic policy
• —> feared & resented by members
• —> plenty of materials that his enemies could use to attack him and undermine his position
• —> criticisms were seen as disloyalty to Lenin
• —> Stalin could discredit Trotsky