Gorbachev's Reforms: Glasnost and Perestroika

What happened

Mikhail Gorbachev became leader of the Soviet Union in March 1985 and launched reforms to revive the stagnant system: perestroika (economic and political 'restructuring') and glasnost ('openness'). He also sought to ease tensions and reduce the arms burden abroad.

Why it matters

Intended to save Soviet communism, Gorbachev's reforms instead unleashed forces of reform and dissent that would bring down the Soviet bloc and end the Cold War.

Sources

• Office of the Historian, U.S. Department of State. Gorbachev and Perestroika · Reputable source