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 Michail Gorbatsjov infographic
Graphic shows key events in Gorbachev’s years in power.
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NECROLOGIE

Michail Gorbatsjovv, die de Koude Oorlog beëindigde, overleden, 91 jaar oud

By Duncan Mil

August 31, 2022 - The West sees former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev’s crowning achievement as ending the Cold War without bloodshed. Still, he failed to prevent the break-up of the Soviet Union.

Gorbachev, the final president of the Soviet Union before it dissolved, forged arms reduction deals with the United States and partnerships with Western powers to remove the Iron Curtain that had divided Europe since World War Two.

He was awarded the 1990 Nobel Peace Prize for his part in the reunification of Germany -- “for his leading role in the peace process which today characterizes important parts of the international community.”

He marked his rule with the concepts of “perestroika” and “glasnost,” meaning reform and openness.

“I began these reforms and my guiding stars were freedom and democracy, without bloodshed. So the people would cease to be a herd led by a shepherd. They would become citizens,” he said.

Gorbachev’s policies allowed previously unthinkable criticism of the party and the state but also emboldened nationalists who began to press for independence in the Baltic republics of Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and elsewhere.

Many Russians never forgave Gorbachev for the turbulence his reforms unleashed, considering the subsequent plunge in their living standards too high a price to pay for democracy.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 31/08/2022; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images
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