Question

Give four key pieces of background information explaining why Stalin may have wanted Kirov's murder (not in terms of his actions within surrounding events).

a) Kirov had a significant following within the party.
b) Kirov was known to be disloyal to Stalin.
c) Kirov was planning a coup.
d) Kirov had evidence of Stalin's wrongdoing.

Answer 1

Stalin may have wanted Kirov's murder due to Kirov's growing influence, Stalin's paranoia fueled by internal and external pressures, and his contentious ascent to power post-Lenin that necessitated the removal of threats.

Step-by-step explanation:

The desire of Joseph Stalin to possibly eliminate Sergei Kirov may have been rooted in several key reasons.

Firstly, Kirov had garnered a significant following within the party, possibly threatening Stalin's supremacy.

Secondly, the unrest from collectivization and the external threat from the Nazi Party likely contributed to Stalin’s feelings of paranoia.

Lastly, Stalin's prior relationship with Lenin and his subsequent rise to power amidst concerns about his suitability for leadership hinted at his willingness to eliminate threats to maintain his position.