The election of Boris Yeltsin as the first President of Russia was a monumental shift in the political landscape of the country. In June 1991, the Russian Federation held its first presidential election following the dissolution of the Soviet Union’s central authority. Boris Yeltsin, a former member of the Communist Party and a prominent advocate for political reforms, surged ahead in public opinion through charismatic campaigning that promised free-market reforms and greater personal freedoms. After securing a decisive victory in the election, Yeltsin took office amidst a backdrop of swirling political uncertainty and economic discontent, as many Russians were eager for change after years of Soviet control.

Yeltsin’s presidency was characterized by an immediate push for the privatization of state assets and integration into the global economy. This was a time of severe economic upheaval, marked by rampant inflation and social unrest. As people transitioned away from accustomed Soviet systems, Yeltsin's administration sought to navigate the tumultuous waters of democracy. His leadership style, often depicted as bold and sometimes confrontational, played a crucial role in positioning Russia on the path towards democracy. One of the defining moments of his first term in office was the failed August coup in 1991, which further established his popularity and solidified his stance against communist hardliners.