How important was force in two authoritarian states?

Could look at:How the word 'establishment' meant expansion of control as well as rise to power Nazi GermanyThe role of the SSThe role of the SAThe role of the secret police (Gestapo) // and the influence these three bodies heldLook at the effect of the use of force, in inciting fear
Communist Mao Red Guard Guerrilla fightingParty purgesCultural RevolutionClass warfare
Then can compare to other factors such as: propaganda, education, policies...