Nikolai Yezhov

Russian police officer and politician

Nikolai Yezhov - Russian police officer and politician
Born

May 1st, 1895
129 years ago

Died

February 4th, 1940
85 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Leaders & Politicians

Country

Russia

Links & References

Served as a key figure in the Soviet secret police, Yezhov rose to prominence during the Great Purge initiated by Joseph Stalin. Played a crucial role in orchestrating widespread repression, leading to the arrest and execution of thousands of perceived enemies of the state. His tenure marked an intensification of state terror in the late 1930s, known for implementing harsh measures against dissent, including the extensive use of show trials. Eventually fell from favor, leading to his arrest and execution in 1940 as part of the ongoing purges.

Led the NKVD during the Great Purge

Implemented policies resulting in mass arrests

Oversaw the execution of numerous political dissidents

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