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O LevelHistoryCambridge (CIE)Revision NotesRussia, 1905–41How Did Stalin Gain & Hold on to Power?How Complete was Stalin’s Control by 1941?

How Complete was Stalin’s Control by 1941? (Cambridge (CIE) O Level History): Revision Note

Exam code: 2147

Zoe Wade

Written by: Zoe Wade

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Updated on

Arguments for Stalin's Complete Control of Russia

Top image: A handshake between two men, representing loyalty. Caption: “After purges to the Communist Party and the army, remaining members were loyal to Stalin.” Middle image: A nervous man in a hat looking over his shoulder with a shadowy figure behind him in a corridor. Caption: “Fear of the NKVD and the GULAG system stopped many people from opposing.” Bottom image: A hand holding a newspaper marked “FAKE NEWS” in red. Caption: “The Communist Party controlled all media and censored the arts.”
An illustration supporting the claim that Stalin had total control of the USSR
An educational illustration showing three reasons Stalin maintained control of the USSR: Top image: Several hands holding up identical portraits of Stalin. Caption: “Stalin created a cult of personality. Many young people worshipped Stalin like a god.” Middle image: A peasant man and woman standing together, wearing traditional rural clothing. Caption: “Collectivisation and Five Year Plans kept the peasants and workers controlled.” Bottom image: Two hands gripping a hammer and sickle, symbol of Soviet communism. Caption: “Stalin focused on ‘catching up’ with the West to create a strong USSR.”
An illustration supporting the claim that Stalin had total control of the USSR

Arguments Against Stalin's Complete Control of Russia

An educational graphic showing three weaknesses of Stalin’s control over the USSR: Top image: A stylised map with two red location pins connected by a dotted line. Caption: “Workers and peasants constantly relocated. It was hard for the government to keep track of them.” Middle image: Three men in suits and lab coats with a red "X" over them, one raising a hand to speak. Caption: “Purges targeted skilled people in different sectors of society. The USSR lacked experts.” Bottom image: A person whispering into someone’s ear. Caption: “Underground opposition groups, especially from the youth, continued to exist.”
An illustration countering the claim that Stalin had total control of the USSR
An educational graphic showing three further weaknesses in Stalin’s control of the USSR: Top image: Two hands exchanging money during a handshake. Caption: “Many people did not meet their production target. They bribed officials.” Middle image: A broken mug being held in two pieces. Caption: “Workers produced substandard products to meet production targets.” Bottom image: A red map of the USSR with a yellow hammer and sickle over central Russia. Caption: “Stalin only directly ruled central Russia. He relied on party officials to control the rest of USSR.”
An illustration countering the claim that Stalin had total control of the USSR

Worked Example

‘Stalin controlled the USSR through the use of show trials.’ How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer

10 marks

Partial answer:

I do not agree with the statement (1). Stalin mainly controlled the USSR through the use of a cult of personality (1). Portraits, photographs and statues of Stalin were everywhere showing him to be a godlike, fatherly figure who would guide the USSR (1). This controlled the people because people followed his orders through indoctrination and devotion to him. The people believed that if they went against Stalin, they went against an almost holy figure and would be punished (1).

Examiner Tips and Tricks

A strong response for this Paper One question needs to examine both sides of the argument. The next paragraph would explain why show trials controlled the USSR. You could explain how Stalin used show trials to rid the USSR of political enemies. Continue to use a clear PEE structure as shown above.


You would then need to write a conclusion explaining whether show trials were the main method of control in Stalin's regime. Remember to use phrases like ‘fully’ or ‘partially' to explain your opinion. Consider if fear or propaganda was the most powerful method of control in the USSR.

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Zoe Wade

    Author: Zoe Wade

    Expertise: History Content Creator

    Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

    Bridgette Barrett

    Reviewer: Bridgette Barrett

    Expertise: Geography, History, Religious Studies & Environmental Studies Subject Lead

    After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 30 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.