The "great terror" that erupted in the 30s of the XX century seems to be one of the most irrational events in modern history. This event is inextricably linked with the name of Joseph Stalin, and sometimes it seems that the whole thing is in the evil will of the leader of the CPSU (b). "Ultimately, the whole character of terror was made by Stalin's personal and political motives," writes R. Conquest. However, Stalin's personal inclinations in the 20s. showed rather moderation. According to the same R. Conquest, "in an unprecedented way in history, Stalin led his "coup d'etat by a teaspoon" and reached the greatest massacre, still giving the impression of some moderation." All this can be perceived as the result of the devilish calculation of the leader.