The Rise of Stalin
History: KS3, topic 18.3.6
The Rise of Stalin
Lenin was ill in 1922 AD and died in 1924 AD. This led to a power struggle over who would succeed him. It was not certain that Stalin would be the next leader. Other potential leaders included Trotsky, Kamenev, Zinoviev and Bukharin.
Lenin’s legacy
- Lenin led the Bolsheviks (a group of Communists) in a revolution in 1917 AD.
- Communism is a left-wing ideology which believes that all property should be distributed and shared by a community.
- After the revolution Russia was thrown into civil war. The Bolsheviks (the Reds) won and formed the Soviet Union.
Stalin's position at the time of Lenin's death
- Stalin was the General Secretary of the Communist Party when Lenin died.
- Stalin was the calmest and most patriotic of the potential successors. His belief in ‘Socialism in One Country’ was particularly important.
Stalin's opponents
- Stalin had several opponents who also wanted to lead the Soviet Union.
- These included: Trotsky, Kamenev, Zinoviev and Bukharin.
- There was no clear candidate to succeed Lenin.
Stalin's rise to power
- Stalin made several political moves to become the leader of the Soviet Union.
- He sidelined his opponents and made himself look like Lenin’s favourite.
- He did this by leading Lenin’s funeral.
- Stalin strengthened his hold over the Communist Party.
Test yourself on The Rise of Stalin
Who was the General Secretary of the Communist Party when Lenin died?