How Complete was Stalin’s Control by 1941? (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE History)

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).

Exam Tip

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.