Stalin's Purges and Military Strategy

This chapter explores the strategic consequences of Stalin's mass executions within the Soviet military, particularly focusing on the Red Army's command structure. It highlights the complex mix of demotions, executions, and the eventual reinstatement of many officers, revealing how these purges impacted military effectiveness during World War II. The chapter also addresses the resilience of the Red Army's strategies amidst the purges and critiques decision-making in military contexts, revealing how past experiences shape future conflicts.