Question

Explain the overall background to why Stalin may have been indirectly involved in Kirov's murder (5 key points).

a) Stalin was a known enemy of Kirov.
b) Kirov had recently criticized Stalin's policies.
c) Stalin had a history of eliminating rivals.
d) Kirov's murder benefited Stalin politically.
e) Stalin was in a different city at the time of the murder.

Answer 1

Stalin's possible indirect involvement in Kirov's murder is suggested by his history with Kirov, his political gain from the murder, his habit of eliminating rivals, and the subsequent Great Purge. Kirov's criticism of Stalin and Stalin's paranoia provide additional context.

Step-by-step explanation:

The overall background to why Stalin may have been indirectly involved in Kirov's murder encompasses several key points. Firstly, Stalin was a known enemy of Kirov, which is reflected in the fact that Kirov had criticized Stalin's policies, especially the harsh measures of collectivization. Stalin, known for his paranoia and habit of eliminating rivals, would have seen Kirov's popularity and criticism as a threat to his power. Moreover, Kirov's assassination benefitted Stalin politically by removing an obstacle and allowed him to initiate the Great Purge, further consolidating his control over the Soviet Union. Despite being in a different city at the time of the murder, Stalin's extensive influence and practice of silencing dissent through brutal means imply a potential indirect involvement.