Question

altering photographs was part of joseph stalins effort to
promote democracy.

censor the communist party.

persecute visual artists.

change historical facts.

Explanation:

Stalin's altering of photographs was to manipulate historical records. Promoting democracy is against his regime's nature. Censoring the Communist Party doesn't fit as he led it. Persecuting visual artists isn't the main reason for photo alteration. Changing historical facts (by removing/discrediting figures) matches the purpose of photo manipulation.

Answer:

D. change historical facts.