Abstract
This examination of the conflict between Stalin and Trotsky from 1926 to 1928 is written to engender an appreciation of the struggle in its most intensive phase. While an analysis of the entire scope of the succession contest between the two revolutionaries would be fascinating, I have decided to concentrate on the last two years of the struggle. Furthermore, the emphasis has been placed on investigating specific topics of interest during the period under scrutiny. Parts of this study, of necessity, will overlap on either side of the two year time duration, but this should serve to augment clarity and precision.