Robbery of Bank Stagecoach in Tiflis

The robbery of the Bank Stagecoach in Tiflis was a pivotal event orchestrated by Joseph Stalin to secure funding for the Bolshevik movement. This operation took place in Erivansky Square, where a convoy transporting bank funds was ambushed by Stalin's operatives. The attackers were armed with guns and homemade explosives, which they used to overpower the guards and seize the money. The violent confrontation resulted in approximately 40 fatalities, highlighting the extreme measures taken by revolutionary groups during this period. The incident not only underscored the growing tensions between various political factions but also marked a significant escalation in the use of violence by the Bolsheviks to achieve their objectives. Following the robbery, Stalin faced scrutiny from the Mensheviks, who were part of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party (RSDLP). They confronted him regarding the violent nature of the operation and subsequently voted to expel him from the party. However, Stalin disregarded their decision and continued to consolidate his power within the Bolshevik faction in Baku. This event was instrumental in shaping Stalin's future role in the Bolshevik movement, as it demonstrated his willingness to employ ruthless tactics to secure financial resources and political influence. The robbery not only provided immediate funds for the Bolsheviks but also set a precedent for the use of violence in their struggle for power, which would have lasting implications for the Russian Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Soviet regime.