How did Benito Mussolini, Adolf Hitler, and Joseph Stalin rise to power, and what methods did they use to keep power?

Stalin was involved in
revolutionary activities as a young man. Right from the start of his political career, he was a
common criminal, staging daring bank robberies to help raise funds for the Bolshevik cause.
Stalin soon gained a reputation for ruthless efficiency and hard work. This endeared him to
Lenin, who personally oversaw the Georgian's rapid rise through the Party ranks.

When Lenin was incapacitated by a debilitating stroke, Stalin stepped into the breach,
building up a powerful network of support within the ruling Communist Party. Upon Lenin's death,
Stalin was well-positioned...