The life and legacy of Mikhail Gorbachev

Mourners paid tribute to former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev on Saturday, after his death at the age of 91. Gorbachev was responsible for launching drastic reforms which helped end the Cold War and precipitated the breakup of the Soviet Union.

Despite his significant contribution to Russian history, current President Vladimir Putin did not attend the farewell ceremony, raising questions about the current state of Russia-West relations.

Gorbachev will be buried at Moscow’s Novodevichy cemetery next to his wife, Raisa.

1. How did Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms help end the Cold War?

Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms helped end the Cold War by weakening the Soviet Union’s grip on its satellite states, which led to the collapse of the Soviet Union itself. Gorbachev’s reforms also increased transparency and openness in the Soviet Union, which made it more difficult for the Soviet government to hide its abuses from its own people and from the rest of the world.

2. What was the significance of the Soviet Union’s breakup?

The breakup of the Soviet Union was a significant event in world history. The Soviet Union was a major superpower and its collapse led to a major shift in the balance of power in the world. The breakup of the Soviet Union also had a major impact on the economy and politics of the world.

3. How did Gorbachev’s death Tuesday affect Russia?

Gorbachev’s death on Tuesday was a significant event for Russia, both because of who Gorbachev was and what he represented. Gorbachev was the last leader of the Soviet Union, and he presided over its dissolution in 1991. This event marked the end of the Cold War and ushered in a new era of Russian history. Gorbachev’s death therefore symbolizes the end of an era for Russia, and many Russians are feeling nostalgic for the days of the Soviet Union. Putin’s decision to snub Gorbachev’s funeral is therefore seen as a sign that he does not share this nostalgia and is instead focused on the future of Russia.

4. What is the Novodevichy cemetery?

The Novodevichy cemetery is a historic cemetery in Moscow, Russia. It is situated in the south-western part of the city, not far from the Moscow River. The cemetery is best known as the final resting place of many of the most famous and influential people in Russian history, including writers, artists, and political leaders.

The Novodevichy cemetery was founded in 1812, during the Napoleonic Wars. At that time, Moscow was under threat of invasion by the French Army, and the cemetery was designed as a fortification, with high walls and a moat.

Quick Summary

In conclusion, it is evident that the Russian President Vladimir Putin is snubbing the funeral of the former Soviet leader due to the Kremlin’s uneasiness about the legacy of the latter. This act reflects the current political tension between the two countries.