9. Disintegration of the Soviet Union
The disintegration of the Soviet Union marked a significant turning point in world history, characterized by a combination of economic failures, political repression, rising nationalism, and external pressures. Mikhail Gorbachev's attempts at reform catalyzed a series of events that accelerated the USSR's collapse, ultimately leading to the emergence of independent nations and a shift in global geopolitics. The consequences of this event reshaped international relations and the internal dynamics of the newly formed states.
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9.4.1The 1991 Coup Attempt
In August 1991, hardline Communists attempted a coup against Gorbachev,...
What we have learnt
- The Soviet Union was established in 1922 as a one-party socialist state.
- Several factors including economic stagnation, political repression, and ethnic tensions contributed to the USSR's collapse.
- The leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev and his reforms played a crucial role in the disintegration process.
Key Concepts
- -- Glasnost
- A policy introduced by Gorbachev aimed at increasing openness and transparency in government and media.
- -- Perestroika
- A reform policy initiated by Gorbachev intended to restructure the Soviet economy by introducing elements of market economics.
- -- Nationalism
- A strong identification with and support for one's nation, leading to demands for independence in the case of various Soviet republics.
- -- Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)
- A regional organization formed in 1991 by some republics of the former Soviet Union to coordinate their activities and foster cooperation after the Soviet collapse.
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