The article considers the problem of constructing images of the past by the young generation in social and cultural conditions of the modern society. We characterize the notion of historical memory, its levels, theoretical and methodological grounds. Specifi cation of the construction of the images of the past is carried out via analysis of the youth representations of Yekaterinburg on the Revolution of 1917. The main features and characteristics of the image of the revolutionary events of 1917 are revealed. We note the presence of stereotypical approach and fragmentation of the constructs of the historical memory of the younger generations. The article shows the specifi city of social construction of youth’s ideas about the past in the symbolic space of modern Russia.