Main figure of concern due to his prominence and potential for leadership, despite concerns about Stalin's rise
Stalin's strategy
Presented himself as affable and a team player, contrasting with Trotsky's perceived aloofness
Trotsky's actions
Refusal to join a four-man directorate during Lenin's illness
Criticism of the NEP and promotion of his own economic strategies
Led to accusations of betrayal and estrangement from the Party
Highlighted the open rift between the Left Opposition and the Troika
13th Party Congress
Formation of Troika
In late 1922 or early 1923, Stalin, Zinoviev, and Kamenev formed a secret faction in the Politburo to prevent Trotsky from gaining party leadership if Lenin died
Stalin's advantages
Administrative strength was evident, as he held positions on all leading bodies of the Party (Central Committee, Politburo, Orgburo, and Secretariat)
Zinoviev and Kamenev held significant local power in Petrograd and Moscow
