“The defeat of Trotsky was the most significant factor in Stalin’s rise to power up to 1929.” Discuss

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the defeat of Trotsky was the most significant factor in Stalin’s rise to power up to 1929. Candidates may refer to the rivalry that existed between Stalin and Trotsky, dating back to the Civil War; and Stalin’s perception that Trotsky was the most likely heir to Lenin and so the main obstacle to be overcome. Candidates may discuss the emergence of factions that began with Trotsky's opposition to the NEP, and how their later piecemeal defeat by Stalin led to his dominance of the Politburo. Candidates may challenge the statement by discussing other factors such as Stalin using his position as General Secretary of the Party to present himself as the favoured heir through the Cult of Lenin, he also had the support of the Lenin Enrolment. Other relevant factors may be discussed such as the popularity of policies like “Socialism in One Country”, that gained Stalin support among the workers in the cities. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the defeat of Trotsky was the most significant factor in Stalin's rise to power up to 1929. Some very good responses were seen to this question with detailed knowledge about the various factors in Stalin's rise to power up to 1929 and the significance of the defeat of Trotsky.