The article analyzes the main stages and directions of the Russian government's policy toward museums. Its primary focus was on nationalizing the museum network and establishing a state museum fund. In different periods, this fund was used to address specific concerns: in the 1920s, it was used to tackle educational issues; during the 1930s and 1940s, its purpose shifted towards propaganda; and in the post-war period, it was dedicated to commemorative endeavors. The main responsibility for implementing these tasks fell on provincial (regional and local) museums. The political factor determined the direction of museum practices - research and education, propaganda, or commemoration.