The Russian Revolution after Lenin: Stalin's Rise to Power

When Vladimir Lenin suffered a series of strokes in 1922-1923, the Soviet Union faced a succession crisis that would reshape world history. This episode follows the behind-the-scenes power struggle between Leon Trotsky, Joseph Stalin, Lev Kamenev, and Grigory Zinoviev during Lenin's final months. We explore Lenin's 'Testament' — a secret document warning against Stalin's excessive power — and how it was suppressed. The episode covers the formation of the troika against Trotsky, the manipulation of the Communist Party apparatus, and the origins of the cult of Lenin that Stalin weaponized. Key events include the 12th Party Congress, the Scissors Crisis, and the gradual sidelining of Lenin's chosen successor. A story of political maneuvering, broken alliances, and the transition from revolutionary idealism to authoritarian bureaucracy.

#RussianRevolution #Lenin #Stalin #Trotsky #SovietUnion #CommunistParty #PowerStruggle #LeninsTestament #StalinsRise #Bolsheviks #SovietHistory #TwelfthPartyCongress #ScissorsCrisis #Krupskaya #CultofLenin #EasternEurope #History #FexingoHistory

Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo