The death of Lenin in 1924 marked a significant transitional period for the USSR, characterized by intense economic and political struggles. Following his death, the country faced a power vacuum that led to a struggle among Bolshevik leaders vying for control, most notably between Joseph Stalin and Leon Trotsky. Lenin's absence also opened up debates about the future direction of the Communist Party and the Soviet state, as his ideas and policies were subject to interpretation and manipulation by his successors.
Lenin's Cult of Personality became a critical factor during this time, as it served as a unifying symbol for the Party and the populace amidst the uncertainty. It allowed leaders to draw on Lenin's legacy to legitimize their authority and decisions, anchoring the state ideology in his image and teachings. This focus on Lenin's persona helped to stabilize the regime temporarily while masking deeper issues within the party and society.
In summary, Lenin's death initiated a turbulent transition marked by power struggles and economic challenges, while the Cult of Personality surrounding him provided a rallying point for the Communist leadership and a means to maintain control during a precarious period.