I think Trotsky assured the Bolsheviks of a victory in the civil war. This is because Trotsky was an efficient leader who provided inspirational leadership to the Red Guards. He led the troops efficiently using his special armoured train, moving from one front to another quickly. He gave the troops encouragement when needed. He introduced conscription. Men aged 14-40 were made to join the army. This greatly expanded the army, which grew to 5 million men in 3 years under this scheme. Also he captured officers from the Whites and made them command his troops, shooting their families if they…
