The Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) was the founding and ruling political party of the Soviet Union from its establishment in 1922 until its dissolution in 1991. It was based on the principles of Marxism-Leninism, advocating for a classless society and the collective ownership of the means of production. The party played a central role in the governance of the Soviet state and influenced various aspects of life, including the economy, culture, and education. The CPSU was led by prominent figures such as Vladimir Lenin and later Joseph Stalin, who implemented significant policies that shaped the Soviet Union's development. The party's structure included a hierarchy of leadership, with the Politburo being the top decision-making body. Over time, the CPSU faced internal challenges and external pressures, leading to its eventual decline and the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.