Trotsky Removed as Red Army Leader

Trotsky pictured in 1918

Leon Trotsky was removed as leader of the Red Army on this date in January 1925, during an intense political struggle within the Soviet leadership. 

This event marked a significant turning point in the power dynamics of the Soviet Union.

Trotsky was a key figure in organising the Red Army during the Russian Civil War (1918–1921). His leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in securing Bolshevik victories against the White forces and other adversaries.

Stalin pictured in 1943

Lenin's death in 1924 triggered a power struggle between Trotsky, Stalin, and their followers.

Ideological differences between Trotsky ("permanent revolution") and Stalin ("socialism in one country") resulted in conflict.

To weaken Trotsky's standing in the Communist Party, Stalin, in collaboration with his temporary allies Zinoviev and Kamenev, implemented a systematic plan.

Many in the party leadership were alienated by Trotsky because of his criticisms of party policy and his perceived arrogance.

Frunze pictured in 1925

On 15th January 1925, Stalin and his allies succeeded in removing Trotsky from his position as People's Commissar of Military and Naval Affairs (effectively the head of the Red Army). A loyal Stalinist and leading military commander, Mikhail Frunze, became his successor.

The dismissal of Trotsky from the Red Army served as a critical turning point, signifying the end of the post-revolutionary collective leadership and paving the way for Stalin's absolute power.