How did the Soviet Union collapse after decades of Cold War dominance?

Ten Minute History - The Decline and Dissolution of the Soviet Union (Short Documentary) · 10:00 · Video: History Matters · Watch at the source

In short: This documentary traces the trajectory of the USSR from the post-Stalin era to its final dissolution. It examines the shifting leadership and economic policies that defined the Soviet experience, offering a concise overview of the forces that led to the rise of the Russian Federation.

The narrative begins following the death of Stalin, highlighting the peak of Soviet influence under Khrushchev. During this period, the USSR engaged in the Space Race and Cold War competition, though Khrushchev's tenure ended abruptly after the Cuban Missile Crisis. His successor, Brezhnev, sought to reverse previous reforms, inadvertently ushering in the Era of Stagnation as the economy stalled.

The final chapter focuses on Gorbachev, whose ambitious attempts at systemic reform ultimately failed, triggering the rapid disintegration of the Soviet state. This collapse paved the way for the emergence of the Russian Federation under the leadership of Boris Yeltsin.

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