Rise of Stalin (Non-Disclosure of Lenin’s Testament)

Key Reasons for the Rise of Stalin

Non-disclosure of Lenin’s Testament

• Lenin went into semi-retirement in 1922 after his first stroke in 1921; Stalin visited him often and acted as his connection to the rest of the world.
• Lenin did not support Stalin, whom he thought was too keen for personal power.
• In his `Political Testament’ written shortly before his death, Lenin advised that Stalin be removed from his position as Secretary-General of the Communist Party.
• He also warned that Stalin should not be trusted to use his power wisely.
• However, some Party members felt that Trotsky, and not Stalin, was a greater threat due to his powerful personality and a close connection to the army. They, therefore, decided to ignore Lenin’s warning.
• When Lenin died in 1924, the Party agreed that the Testament was not to be made public.
• As a result, the Testament did not achieve the effect that Lenin hoped for. Stalin retained his position as Secretary-General, which he later used to great effect during his rise to power.