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The Collapse of Communism: Impact and Transformation in the Soviet Union

Explore the events leading to the collapse of communism in the Soviet Union. From Gorbachev's reforms to the fall of the Iron Curtain, witness the shift towards democracy and freedom in Eastern Europe. Discover the struggles of a weak economy, political unrest, and the end of the Cold War.

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The Collapse of Communism: Impact and Transformation in the Soviet Union

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  1. The Collapse of Communism 1990

  2. Soviet Union Faces Changes • Very weak economy in Soviet Union • Rebellion in Poland, Invasion of Afghanistan • Communist Party promotes a new Soviet Leader • Mikhail Gorbachev 1985-91 (younger & more open to reform)

  3. Gorbachev’s leadership would unleash a 2nd Russian Revolution • Announced astonishing reforms for the Economy & society in Soviet Union • Allowed Iron Curtain countries to determine their own form of government

  4. Collapse of Iron Curtain 1989-90 “Each people determines the future of its own country and chooses its own form of society?” This opened the door to freedom for eastern Europe (Iron Curtain) 1989 – 1990: majority of Iron Curtain countries become democratic. Germany is re-united

  5. The Cold War: Part 11 – The Wall http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tgnm1TBZdV4&feature=related

  6. Primary Source • 1982 Ronald Reagan Speech

  7. 1991: Boris Yeltsin replaces Gorbachev 15 Soviets Republics declare independence Soviet Union is officially ended in 1991

  8. Some Factors in the collapse of Soviet Union • Overall, very poor economy • Flawed economic system (communism) • Could not compete with USA in the Arms Race • Invasion of Afghanistan caused financial hardship • Rebellions in Iron Curtain Countries & Soviet Republics • Falling oil prices in 1980’s drastically lowered income

  9. Falling Oil Prices hurt Economy

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