How did Stalin use Russian nationalism during World War II?

During World War II, Joseph Stalin strategically pivoted toward Russian nationalism to bolster the Soviet war effort and unify the population against the German invasion. Recognizing that appeals to national sentiment were more effective than party ideology during the crisis, he implemented several key policies:12

• Historical Rehabilitation: Stalin identified himself with legendary Russian figures and leaders, such as the medieval prince Dmitri Donskoy, Ivan IV, and Peter I. Notably, he elevated Saint Alexander Nevsky as a national hero, even establishing a military order in his name in 1942 to inspire troops against the German advance.13
• Religious Concessions: Stalin rehabilitated the Russian Orthodox Church, allowing it to function again to help mobilize the Russian people's traditional loyalties.1
• Nationalist Propaganda: The regime promoted Russian cultural heroes and the Russian language, positioning Russians as the elder brother for other Soviet nationalities to emulate.1

While these measures fostered national pride, they were accompanied by the brutal deportation of over 50 ethnic groups—such as the Chechen, Ingush, and Volga Germans—who were accused of collaborating with the enemy.12