Gorbachev's New Thinking Flashcards
What were some of the problems facing the Soviet Union in 1985?
Huge sums were spent on developing arms during the Brezhnez era, hardly any industrial growth, low standards of living and lack of human rights.
Why did Gorbachev want to reform the USSR?
The standards of living in the East were nowhere near the standards of the West. The lack of human rights and trade unions were causing political unrest. He said to his wife in 1985 “ We can’t go on living like this.”
What were perestroika and glasnost and why were they significant?
Perestroika referred to his programme for restructuring the Soviet Union. Glasnost, was used to describe Gorbachev’s new attitude to foreign relations. This was important because reforms because the idea that the West and the East could have a friendly relationship or criticise the government was unheard of.
What was the American response for?
The relations between the superpowers changed since here was a Soviet leader that was not looking to expand communism. Reagan saw this as an opportunity to end the Cold War, but wanted to stick to his aim of being tough on communism.
What did Gorbachev’s new thinking look like in action?
During the first 4 years of Gorbachev’s new leadership significant steps were taken to bring about further limitations on nuclear weapons.
What effect did Gorbachev have on Eastern Europe?
Once Gorbachev had announced that the Soviet Union was giving up the Brezhnev Doctrine, the countries would no longer fear that the Soviets would intervene, that lead to the fall of the Soviet Union.
What were the intentions of his new thinking?
Ironically, his new reforms weren’t designed to bring an end to communism but to strengthened the communist government within the Soviet Union.
Why was Gorbachev removed from power?
Losing the satellite states played a major role in him being removed from power.The leaders of other republics joined to create a Commonwealth of Independent States. He couldn’t continue under these circumstances and resigned in 25 Decemeber 1991.
