Was Lenin more successful in dealing with opposition than any other ruler of Russia (1855-1964)?

Judgment - Lenin was effective as removed opposition aand retained power until death. Alexander II was assassinated, Nicholas II and Khrushchev were both forced to resign and PG overthrown after 9 months by Lenin in October 1917. Stalin's effects seen to be more long lasting though (even into Khrushchev's time in power to some degree) so therefore Stalin was the most successful at removing opposition.

Secret Police

• Lenin increased Cheka membership from 180 in 1918 to 143k in 1921. 50k killed 1918 
• Stalin used NKVD 40m Gulags, 20k members also purged. In addition to Lenin used to remove internal opposition such as Bukharin and Trotsky so more successful as removed various types of opposition
• Alex III increased the role of Okhrana with spying, generally kept a low profile but Social Revolutinaries formed led to increased use as e.g executioners under Nicholas II, so not long lasting.
• This led to the 1905 revolution, had to concede to opposition with Dumas under October Manifesto. Nullified with Fundamental Laws but Dumas subject to 3rd element, so not as successful as Lenin or Stalin.

Censorship & propaganda

• Lenin in 1917 banned all bourgeoisie parties & newspapers, and ensured Cheka censored bourgeoisie publications
• Stalin went a step further only USW writers allowed. Gained support for FYPs with Pravda well as removal of opposition, this was possible because of Lenin's image (Stalin = Lenin of today) but Stalin was the one who used…