Final answer:
Stalin's rise to power was facilitated by his political relationships and the death of Lenin, leading to his consolidation of control in the Soviet Union.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stalin's rise to power can be attributed to several key events:
- Stalin used his position as the secretary of the Russian Communist Party to build political relationships and influence.
- Lenin's death in 1924 provided Stalin with an opportunity to make a power grab.
- Stalin expelled Trotsky from the Communist Party and consolidated total control of the state.
These events allowed Stalin to become the Premier of the party and establish his autocratic rule over the Soviet Union.