Mass Repressions

Search Mass Repressions Nikolai Ezhov, Operational Order. July 30, 1937:* A significant number of former kulaks, repressed people, escaped prisoners, and exiles are lying low in the countryside.* Former anti-Soviet elements, including church activists, White participants, and bandit uprising leaders, remain untouched in the countryside.* Criminals who avoided punishment have made nests in the countryside and towns.* The goal is to mercilessly destroy all anti-Soviet elements, protect Soviet people from counter-revolutionary raids, and finish with subversive work undermining the Soviet state.* Operation begins on August 5, 1937, and will be completed within four months.