Which statement best explains why the Soviet Union committed atrocities against its own people? Responses The Bolsheviks wanted to consolidate power by eliminating enemies. The Bolsheviks wanted to consolidate power by eliminating enemies. - no response given The Bolsheviks feared internal revolts by supporters of the tsar. The Bolsheviks feared internal revolts by supporters of the tsar. - no response given The Bolsheviks were a Russian ethnic party and wanted to eliminate ethnic rivals. The Bolsheviks were a Russian ethnic party and wanted to eliminate ethnic rivals. - no response given The Bolsheviks wanted to collectivize the economy of Russia.

Answer 1

The statement that best explains why the Soviet Union committed atrocities against its own people is: "The Bolsheviks wanted to consolidate power by eliminating enemies."

This reflects the Bolsheviks' desire to suppress dissent and solidify their control over the state, leading to repressive measures against perceived political opponents and groups they saw as threats to their authority.