Stalin's Great Purge was a campaign of political repression in the Soviet Union during the late 1930s, led by Joseph Stalin. It aimed to eliminate dissent and consolidate his power by targeting perceived enemies, including members of the Communist Party, military leaders, and ordinary citizens. Many were arrested, tortured, or executed, creating a climate of fear across the nation.
The Great Purge resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands and the imprisonment of millions in labor camps known as Gulags. This brutal crackdown not only removed potential rivals but also stifled creativity and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on Soviet society and governance.