Why did Khrushchev, the chief Soviet leader after Stalin's death, denounce the crimes of the Stalin era in 1956?

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Khrushchev's denunciation of Stalin's crimes was part of a broader strategy to consolidate his power and initiate reforms. By criticizing Stalin's excesses, he sought to distance himself from the previous regime, signal a new direction for the Soviet Union, and gain support from reform-minded members of the Communist Party. This move was instrumental in launching the period known as the "Khrushchev Thaw," which saw a relative relaxation of authoritarian controls and censorship.

Why Did Khrushchev, the Chief Soviet Leader After Stalin's Death