Fall of the Soviet Union

Definition

The fall of the Soviet Union refers to the dissolution of the USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) in 1991, which marked the end of the Cold War. This event led to a significant shift in global power dynamics.

Analogy

Think about it like a popular band breaking up. Just as fans and other bands are affected by this change, so too were countries around the world impacted by the fall of the Soviet Union. It changed global politics just like a band breakup would change music trends.

Related terms

Perestroika: This was a political movement within the Communist Party of the Soviet Union during 1980s, before its fall. It is associated with reforming economic and political systems within USSR.

Glasnost: A policy that called for increased openness and transparency in government institutions and activities within USSR. It was initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in late 1980s.

Cold War: A period from 1947-1991 characterized by geopolitical tension between powers in Eastern Bloc (Soviet Union and its satellite states) and powers in Western Bloc (United States, NATO allies).