The Death Of Lenin

Question 1

When did he die?

Answer 1

1924

Question 2

Lenin’s political testament

Answer 2

Written in late 1922–early 1923 during Lenin’s illness.

Intended as a private message to guide the future of the Communist Party.

⚠️ Leadership Warnings
Stalin:
Called rude and abusive of power.

Lenin recommended removing him as General Secretary.

Trotsky:
Described as intelligent and capable, but too self-confident.

Other leaders (Kamenev, Zinoviev, Bukharin, Piatakov):
Criticized for past mistakes or weaknesses.

🧩 Party Unity Concerns
Feared power struggles would split the Party.

Urged reform of the Central Committee to strengthen unity.

🌍 Nationalities Issue
Criticized Stalin’s treatment of ethnic minorities, especially in Georgia.

Warned of “Great Russian chauvinism” under Stalin’s leadership.

Question 3

Stalin’s response to the Testament

Answer 3

Used it to rally the support of others who were also negatively assessed to limit its distribution.
Only allowed for it to be read by a small number of delegates.
Printed versions were not permitted until 1926-27 and were heavily edited.