Aim. To determine the theoretical and methodological significance of scientific discussions of the late 1930s to early 1950s for the problem of periodization of the centralized Russian state. Methodology and Approach. The author analyzed source materials (publications in periodicals, political speeches) and assessed the influence of their political and ideological content on the research work of historians. Results. The author establishes and summarizes the problem areas of scientific discussions of the periodization of the centralization process. The key factors that influenced the work of Marxist historians are identified. The conclusions of researchers about the criteria for and approaches to periodization are analyzed. In particular, the development of Marxist methodology is demonstrated in the period under consideration. Theoretical and/or Practical Implications. The author presents a holistic view of the problem of scientific periodization of the creation of a centralized state. The positions of leading researchers are systematized. The conclusions of the article contribute to a deeper understanding of the features of the formation of the Soviet monoconcept of domestic history.