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What were some of the key turning points in the life of Lenin that led to his rise to power?

Tennie Klimkov

Hey man,

Great question! Lenin's journey to becoming one of the most important figures in Russian history was a long and complex one, with many pivotal moments along the way. Here are some of the key turning points that I think helped pave the way for his rise to power:

1. His brother's execution: Lenin's older brother, Alexander, was executed for his involvement in a plot to assassinate Tsar Alexander III. This event deeply affected Lenin, both personally and politically. It made him even more committed to the revolutionary cause, and he became convinced that violent overthrow was the only way to bring about the changes he wanted to see in Russian society.

2. The divide within the revolutionary movement: Lenin was part of a group of revolutionaries known as the Bolsheviks, who were more radical than their counterparts, the Mensheviks. Lenin believed in the need for a small, disciplined party of professional revolutionaries who would lead the masses. This put him at odds with the more moderate Mensheviks, and eventually led to a split between the two groups.

3. The February Revolution: In 1917, popular unrest and protests led to the overthrow of the tsarist government and the establishment of a provisional government. Lenin was living in exile in Switzerland at the time, but he saw this as an opportunity to return to Russia and further the Bolshevik cause. He argued that the provisional government was just another form of oppression and that the Bolsheviks needed to seize power for themselves.

4. The October Revolution: In October of 1917, the Bolsheviks managed to seize control of the government and establish a socialist state. This was the culmination of Lenin's years of work and planning, and it represented a major turning point not just in his life but in the history of Russia and the world.

5. The Civil War: After the October Revolution, Russia descended into a long and brutal civil war. Lenin was put in charge of the government and became the driving force behind the Red Army's successful fight against various factions. This cemented his position as the leader of the new Soviet Union and further solidified his power.

These are just a few of the key moments that I think helped shape Lenin and bring him to power. There are certainly many other factors at play, but I think these ones are some of the most important.

Hope that helps!

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