Final answer:
The Seventeenth Party Congress in January 1935 was a major challenge to Stalin as it exposed divisions within the Communist Party. The events impacted party members and led to a purge of dissenters. The long-term effect was the consolidation of Stalin's power and the establishment of an authoritarian regime.
Step-by-step explanation:
In January 1935, the Seventeenth Party Congress took place in the Soviet Union. This congress was a major challenge to Stalin as it presented an opportunity for his opponents to express their discontent and opposition to his leadership.
The events of January 1935 were significant because they highlighted the growing divisions within the Communist Party and the challenges Stalin faced in maintaining his power.
The developments in January 1935 impacted party members as it exposed the various factions and disagreements within the party. It led to a purge of perceived dissenters and opponents, with Stalin consolidating his power by removing those who opposed him.
The long-term effect of these events on the political landscape of the Soviet Union was the further consolidation of Stalin's power and the establishment of a totalitarian regime. Stalin's control and suppression of opposition became more pronounced, leading to a period of authoritarian rule and repression.