The renaming of Leningrad back to Saint Petersburg marked a significant turning point in Russian politics and cultural identity during a time of rapid change. Originally founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703, Saint Petersburg served as the imperial capital before the Bolshevik Revolution, which led to the city's renaming in 1924 in honor of Vladimir Lenin. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, there was a growing interest in the return to historic names and traditions that had been suppressed during communist rule.

On September 6, 1991, the Russian parliament, known as the Supreme Soviet, took the decisive step to revert the name to Saint Petersburg, which had been used for over two centuries before the communist era. The restoration of the name was a reflection of the political climate under the leadership of Boris Yeltsin, who was keen on endorsing democratic reforms and the resurgence of Russian nationalism. Support for the change came from both local residents and various political factions as a symbol of reestablishing a link to pre-Soviet heritage.

The change was set to take effect on October 1, 1991, and officially, city signage and documents would transition back to include the historical name. This name change act was more than just a cosmetic alteration; it represented the people’s desire to reclaim their identity, heritage, and historical significance amid the tumultuous changes occurring in post-Soviet Russia. It also connected to broader initiatives to revitalize the cultural legacy of Russia, as many sought to distance themselves from the Soviet past and foster a new image of a more open and democratic society.