The Politburo

What was the Politburo?

The Politburo was part of the Communist Party of Russia and subsequently the Soviet Union. It consisted of 7 to 9 main members of the party. It was the highest policy-making authority in the party; they made all of the decisions.

When was the Politburo formed?

The Politburo was created in October 1917. From 1952 to 1966, it was renamed the Presidium.

Who were the first members of the Politburo?

Lev Kamenev, Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin, Leon Trotsky and Grigory Zinoviev were the first members of the Politburo.

What was the power of the Politburo?

The Politburo was the most powerful body in the whole of the USSR. Its members made all key policy decisions, passing them to the other sections of the Communist Party and to the government through the Sovnarkom.

How did Lenin use the Politburo?

Lenin used the Politburo to run the country. He did allow some debate and difference of opinion. During the Civil War, it took over decision-making from the central committee.

How did Stalin use the Politburo?

Under Stalin the Politburo lost its role as the central decision-making authority as he established a personalised dictatorship.