How Stalin Gained Power

Question 1

Stalin’s positions in the party

Answer 1

• Had to establish that he was a true Leninist: established a new ideological orthodoxy
• During the leadership struggle Stalin + allies discredited a number of ideas: became known as Trotskyite

Question 2

Use of Lenin’s reputation

Answer 2

• Establishing new ideological orthodoxy, branded opponents as enemies of Leninism
• Accused Bukharin, Zinoviev and Kamenev of plotting against the party and forming a faction: Lenin banned factions in 1921

Question 3

The ‘Lenin Enrolment’

Answer 3

• From 1924 allowed 128,000 to join communist party: justified by needing new working class members
• They were interested in getting well-paid party jobs so supported Stalin who could promote them in the party
• Less interested in ideas/goals of the rev, more in their careers

Question 4

Stalin’s ‘approved list’

Answer 4

• Rather than free choice, local parties encouraged to send delegates to party congress from the approved list
• 1923 1/3 delegates selected were from Stalin’s list
• More control over congress

Question 5

Rise of the Nomenklatura

Answer 5

• People who enjoyed power and status due to their party position, due to patronage
• Party ceased to be full of dedicated revolutionary radicals, instead professional administrators dedicated to their own careers