Premier of the Soviet Union
Early History
The position of the Premier of the Soviet Union was established on July 6, 1923, by the Central Executive Committee of the Soviet Union. The Premier was the head of government and held the second highest position in the Soviet Union, after the General Secretary of the Communist Party. The Premier was responsible for the administration of the Soviet government and the various branches of industry and state services.
Role and Responsibilities
The Premier was responsible for the overall administration of the Soviet Union, including the implementation of the country's five-year plans. The Premier was also responsible for the appointment of ministers and the chairmen of the state committees, who were in turn responsible for various sectors of the Soviet economy. The Premier also had the power to issue decrees and resolutions, which were binding on all organs of state administration.
Selection and Term of Office
The Premier was elected by the Supreme Soviet, the highest legislative body in the Soviet Union. The Premier served for a term of five years, but could be re-elected an unlimited number of times. The Premier could be removed from office by the Supreme Soviet or by the Central Committee of the Communist Party.
Notable Premiers
There were several notable Premiers throughout the history of the Soviet Union. The first Premier, Vladimir Lenin, served from 1922 to 1924 and played a key role in the establishment of the Soviet state. Other notable Premiers include Joseph Stalin, who served from 1941 to 1953, and Nikita Khrushchev, who served from 1958 to 1964.
Influence and Power
The power and influence of the Premier varied throughout the history of the Soviet Union. During the early years of the Soviet Union, the Premier had significant power and influence. However, as the General Secretary of the Communist Party became more powerful, the role of the Premier became more administrative and less political.
Legacy
The position of the Premier of the Soviet Union was abolished in 1991, with the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The last Premier, Ivan Silayev, served from August to December 1991. The role of the Premier was replaced by the position of the President of the Russian Federation.