Stalin becomes a personal dictator

Question 1

1. What did Stalin use to his advantage in 1940s/early 50s?
2. What did Stalin become head of in 1941?
   - What did this mean?
3. What did he do during WW2? (2)

Answer 1

1. The vagueness of the party and state’s relationship. ‘
2. Sovnarkom.
   - He was the most powerful figure in the party and state.
3. Allowed state power to grow & ended mass terror.

Question 2

1. What did he encourage between state and party officials?
2. What did terror inspire?
3. How often did the Politburo meet post-WW2?
4. How did he test the loyalty of senior figures?
5. What did this mean?

Answer 2

1. Rivalries.
2. Fear.
3. 9 times a year, compared to weekly under Lenin.
4. By attacking their families.
5. Stalin ruled rather than the CP.