How would I answer the following exam question: 'Describe the reasons why Stalin became the Russian leader in 1924.' (5 marks, Eduquas)?

For this question, you are required - according to the mark scheme - to give two separate factors that explain why Stalin became leader, demonstrating specific subject knowledge for each factor. The two factors that I am going to choose for this example will be Stalin's advantageous position in government and his propaganda techniques that made him out to have been close to Lenin and the right candidate to succeed him. Here is an example answer, using specific knowledge to back up these two points: 'Stalin's position in government was a key factor in enabling his rise to power in 1924. As General Secretary of the Communist Party, a position Stalin obtained in 1922, he was able to appoint officials who would support him as well as remove his opponents within the Party. With this opportunity to bestow patronage, Stalin could effectively control who was a member of the Party and ensure the loyalty of those he gave a position to, meaning that he had considerable support to become the next leader. This factor was all the more important in helping Stalin's rise to power because his opponents, including Zinoviev, Trotsky and Kamanev, underestimated how useful Stalin's position as General Secretary would be, meaning they did not realise how great a threat Stalin was until it was too late, and Stalin had filled the Party with his supporters. Another key factor that explains Stalin's rise to leadership is his use of propaganda to further his appeal within the Party. With various methods that included rousing speeches and doctored photos, Stalin portrayed himself as close to Lenin and, therefore, as Lenin's natural successor. At Lenin's funeral in January 1924, Stalin acted as lead mourner and delivered a speech in which he pledged to continue in the tradition of the great leader. This made it seem as if Stalin would be the best candidate for leader. On the other hand, Trotsky - one of Stalin's main rivals for the leadership and the person who had initially been chosen to deliver the oration - failed to attend the funeral, meaning that he appeared less keen to uphold Lenin's legacy. This was a huge disadvantage to Trotsky's leadership bid, and thus, in turn, greatly improved Stalin's chances of becoming leader. '