The question of organizational continuity of the Russian government from the days of the Soviet Union to the present Russian Federation has been debated by historians and scholars.  By analyzing the political trends throughout the later years of the Soviet Union leading up the disintegration of the Communist party, this research attempts to explain the transfer of powers from Communist party officials, political parties and factions that played a role in the transition phase to the Russian Federation that is present today.  Furthermore, this research aims to answer who were the particular parties and factions involved, what caused certain political parties to become dominant forces in the change, and how that affects government today.  Finally, this research will help to outline the connections and continuity of the old USSR government to the present day Russian Federation.