Gorbachev's failures and collapse of the USSR

Question 1

what were Gorbachev’s fundamental mistakes?

Answer 1

believed that reform could save the USSR
did not anticipate the effects of glasnost
did not see nationalism as a threat
his reforms created crisis

Question 2

what were Gorbachev’s policy mistakes?

Answer 2

his initial policy was contradicting - restructuring industry whilst increasing output
he continually introduced new reforms - gave them no time to succeed
attempted political and economic reform at the same time
weakened the CP power and didn’t make a new power base

Question 3

what were Gorbachev’s tactical mistakes?

Answer 3

he failed to win over the CP - they resisted reform
he embraced democracy but refused to stand for election - weakened his position
he survived the coup - failed to abandon the CP - lost public support