Stalin's Power over Party and State

Question 1

How did Stalin consolidate his power?

Answer 1

Stalin created a totalitarian government that answered to him and him alone. The terror enabled him to be feared and followed without question.

Question 2

What methods did Stalin use to create a totalitarian government?

Answer 2

• Reduced the amount of power others had.
• Removed many important men from their positions.
• He used intimidation.
• He removed opposition within the NKVD.
• He would test the loyalty of his allies.
• Political manipulation.
• Shifting power.

Question 3

How did Stalin reduce the amount of power others had?

Answer 3

Allowed the Politburo to meet less frequently and set up sub groups outside the Politburo so no other would have significant power.

Question 4

How did Stalin chose who remained in important positions?

Answer 4

He used men who were completely loyal to him. Stalin tested loyalty by taking family and friends - Molotov made no attempt to stop the arrest of his wife nor end her imprisonment.

Question 5

How did Stalin intimidate people?

Answer 5

He would stand over those who he suspected to be disloyal in meetings.

Question 6

How did Stalin politically manipulate the Party?

Answer 6

He created rivals between the Party and State as they fought for more power, taking the attention off of Stalin.
This was encouraged as Stalin shifted the weight between party and state so neither would get too powerful.