In what year did Mikhail Gorbachev become leader of the Soviet Union?

Mikhail Gorbachev became the leader of the Soviet Union in 1985. He served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) from 1985 until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Gorbachev's ascent to power marked a significant turning point in the history of the Soviet Union and had a profound impact on global politics.

Gorbachev's rise to leadership came at a time when the Soviet Union was facing several internal and external challenges. The economy was stagnant, and there was a growing discontent among the Soviet people. Gorbachev recognized the need for reform and initiated a series of policies known as perestroika (economic restructuring) and glasnost (openness) to address these issues.

Under Gorbachev's leadership, the Soviet Union underwent significant political and economic changes. He introduced elements of democracy, allowing greater political freedom and openness. Gorbachev's reforms also aimed at modernizing the Soviet economy by encouraging private ownership, market-based practices, and foreign investment.

Gorbachev's leadership style and reforms had far-reaching consequences both domestically and internationally. Internally, his policies led to increased political pluralism and a more open society. However, they also gave rise to nationalist movements within the Soviet republics, ultimately contributing to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

On the international stage, Gorbachev's leadership was marked by significant shifts in Soviet foreign policy. He pursued a policy of détente with the United States and other Western powers, which helped ease tensions between the superpowers and contributed to the end of the Cold War.

In conclusion, Mikhail Gorbachev became the leader of the Soviet Union in 1985. His leadership brought about significant political and economic reforms, but also contributed to the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union. Gorbachev's impact on global politics, particularly in ending the Cold War, is widely recognized and remembered to this day.

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