Stalin's power and influence lay in his

Question

a. oratorical skills

b. brilliant writings and theories

c. mastery of the party structure

d. brutal use of the militay and secret police

Answer 1

c and d, and the fact he had a great mustache.

Answer 2

arguably b - he wrote a very erudite piece on the nationalities question, and was editor of Pravda before the Revolution.

arguably d - because he did use the military, and more importantly the secret police to suppress dissent and opposition across the USSR.

But the best-fit answer is c.  By controlling who was in or out of the party and who owes who favours, he was able to consolidate his power and remain in power for 25 years.

Naz - don't forget his great 'tash

Answer 3

c and d.  Plus, a name change (Stalin was not his birthname), and that great hair!

Answer 4

c first then d