Questions and Answers
What was the political structure of the Soviet system?
Single ruling party - the Communist Party of the Soviet Union
What were the key reforms introduced by Gorbachev?
Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (restructuring)
What was the primary economic characteristic of the Soviet system?
Centrally planned economy with government control of major industries
What was the outcome of Gorbachev's policies of increased political freedom and openness?
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What were the challenges faced by the Soviet system?
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Study Notes
Soviet Political Structure
- The Soviet system was a one-party communist state with a centralized government
- The Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU) held all the political power
- The government was divided into the All-Union Congress of Soviets, the Supreme Soviet, and the Council of Ministers
Gorbachev's Reforms
- Introduced in the mid-1980s, the reforms aimed to revitalize the stagnant Soviet economy
- Key reforms included:
- Glasnost (openness), allowing for increased freedom of speech and critiquing of government policies
- Perestroika (restructuring), introducing elements of a market economy and decentralizing decision-making
- Democratization, increasing electoral competition and representation
Soviet Economic Characteristics
- A planned economy, where the government controlled production, distribution, and prices
- State-owned enterprises dominated key sectors, such as energy, heavy industry, and agriculture
- Shortages of consumer goods and services were common due to a focus on industrial production
Outcome of Gorbachev's Policies
- Increased political freedom led to growing nationalism in the republics and demands for independence
- The Soviet Union eventually collapsed, breaking into 15 independent countries in 1991
- The policies of glasnost and perestroika contributed to the Soviet system's demise
Challenges Faced by the Soviet System
- Economic stagnation and inefficiencies in the planned economy
- Reduced international competitiveness and declining oil prices
- Rising nationalist movements and demands for independence
- Military burden and costly foreign engagements
