Stalin the Rise to Power

Stalin

The rise to power of Joseph Stalin was conditioned by various circumstances that depended on both internal conditions and external factors. However, his eventual leadership proved to be on the long run one of the most disastrous in universal history, for his country and for the world as well.

Stalin benefited in his quest for the supreme control of the U.S.S.R. from a favorable environment that enabled him to speculate different aspects of the internal political stage. The end of the tsarist era had given room to a state of indecision in terms of political leadership. This was soon cleared as Lenin took hold of the power. Although they had shared the same doctrinal background, a difference of opinions and views on the revolution and future actions soon emerged. This constant state of latent confrontation determined Stalin to be prepared for a change of leadership and to take measures to secure his position as successor to Lenin. (Hobsbawm, 1996)

In terms of policy, Stalin's approach was more radical in every aspect of the society. Thus, in addressing the economic sector, in the beginning of his political career, he was even more vehement than Lenin in supporting the NEP. Despite the fact that in the end, he repudiated it, it drew him popular acclaim. Concerning the Party, Stalin was more involved in promoting the Marxist doctrine than Lenin. Therefore, the historical context was favorable for Stalin to emerge as a savior of the nation and as a promoter of the second revolution that would have improved the condition of the population and would make it the most dignifying of all nations. (Tucker, 1990)

The reminiscence of the tsarist rule and the constant reminder of the idea of class struggle represented a favorable ground for Stalin's economic thoughts. (Van Ree, 2002) Thus, as he supported the socialist dogma he appealed to the masses that repelled the idea of private ownership and bourgeoisies, transforming Stalin in a spokesperson for their grievances and thus an example worthy of following. (Van Ree, 2002)

Foreign policy is an important vehicle for propelling one's image, be it on the domestic arena, or the international scene. Stalin took advantage of this element and used both socialist countries and western states as an indirect instrument for promoting his personality on the political scene.

The doctrine he had promoted also gave him advantage over capitalism in other countries around the world, which, in turn offered him a broader political support. Socialism was the strong opponent of foreign intervention in the internal affairs of national states. Therefore, newly independent states were reluctant to any sign of international interference. From this perspective, Stalin's approach was rather appealing and enabled them to find an alternative to capitalism. (Tucker, 1990)