The article discusses the semantic content of the notion of patriotism and its transformation in the public consciousness at different stages of development of the Russian society, forms of patriotism and mass behavior, patriotism as a heroic past and a decent national future. With regard to patriotism macrosocial strategy is critically evaluated of the main social groups of the modern Russian society. Author discusses existence of patriotism in authoritarian and democratic state, patriotism and loyalty to the political regime. Civic patriotism is seen as a historical resource of sustainabe Russian statehood.