CLEP Western Civ II

Answer: E - The Stalinist purges were among the most indiscriminate mass killings in the 20th century. Unlike Hitler, who targeted defined groups, the purges cut through all realms of society. Party members were not immune, and Stalin's paranoia ensured that even members of the military were frequently caught up in sweeps. Stalin built loyalty by creating a culture of fear so intense that even unsubstantiated accusations were death sentences. The fact that high-ranking officials and party members were suspect illustrates his willingness to dispose of anyone he perceived as a threat.