Stalin's purges

Stalin's purges were a series of political campaigns during the 1930s aimed at consolidating power by removing perceived enemies and dissenters within the Soviet Union. Through widespread arrests, show trials, and executions, Stalin targeted political rivals, military leaders, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens accused of disloyalty or sabotage. The purges created a climate of fear, suppressed opposition, and solidified Stalin’s authority, often based on false accusations. While intended to strengthen the regime, they resulted in significant loss of life, destabilized government institutions, and fostered an atmosphere of paranoia throughout Soviet society.