The end of the Cold War and a new world order

What were two of the biggest problems that Gorbachev inherited in the country?

The resources of the country were being drained by the Cold War Arms race, and the relations with the West were strained.

What were other problems that the Soviet Union faced?

- The economy was failing

- Agricultural production was poor

- Shortages of essential consumer goods

- Inadequate housing

- Poor public health care

- Alcoholism

- Government had no solution

What is SDI and when was it introduced?

Strategic Defense Initiative in 1981

Why was SDI a turning point in the arms race?

Because it was a huge laser field in space to protect America against Soviet missiles

What position did Gorbachev gain in 1985?

Gorbachev became the Secretary of the communist party and head of state of the Soviet Union

What were the new reforms or changes that Gorbachev was making?

Withdrew from Afghanistan, end the existing culture of silence and censorship, and secondly restructure the economy.

What was Perestroika and the basis of it?

Restructuring. The aim was to rebuild the Soviet economy. Move from a completely state-controlled or centrally planned economy to one that allows market forces.

What did Demokratiya inspire the Soviet voters to do?

They supported Boris Yeltsin who resigned from the Communist Party and became premier of the Russian republic

What was a major impact on the economy of the Soviet Union that resulted in talks with Reagan?

Military spending was need to be reduced, and to stop the costly nuclear arms race. Had meetings with Prez Reagan and agreed to reduce nuclear arms.

What were the aftereffects of Gorbachev's policies?

They weren't popular and unsuccessful.

-Many systems collapsed with out state support.

-Prices and the cost of living increased (especially food, housing and medical costs)

-Production remained low , shortages and long queues for basic goods

-Inflation and foreign debt increased sharply

When did Mikhail Gorbachev become the leader of the Soviet Union?

He became the leader of the SU in 1985

Who was the leader of the USA at the time of Mikhail Gorbachev?

The opposing leader of the US at that time was Ronald Reagan

What war was draining the Soviet economy and what year did the involvement start?

The Soviets sent troops into Afghanistan in 1979, to back a newly elected pro-Soviet government.

What was the problem occurring in Afghanistan?

The Mujaheddin, anti-communist Islamic fighters were challenging the government.

What was the evidence that the relationship with the West was hostile?

Ronald Reagan, the American president, called the USSR and 'evil empire'

Why did the SDI affect the USSR negatively?

USSR felt weakened because it could not afford to develop a defence system to match that of the USA.

What were the two new reforms that Gorbachev introduced?

Glasnost and Perestroika

What is Glasnost and what is it's basis?

Openness. People would be allowed to speak more freely and be able to criticise the government. Meaning their control over literature, theatre, intellectual debate and media would decrease.

What did market forces in terms of the economy mean?

Private businesses were allowed to exist, and make their own decisions about prices, production, and marketing. They had to finance themselves. And the state would withdraw many of it's subsidies

What is Demokratiya and the basis of it?

Democracy. Some forms of election were allowed but the Soviet government would still have majority control.