Mikhail Gorbachev
The life of Mikhail Gorbachev, former General Secretary of the Soviet Union.
Gorbachev becomes leader of the Soviet Union—BBC History website
In 1985 Gorbachev was appointed General Secretary of the Soviet Union at the age of 54.
Perestroika and glasnost: Gorbachev's reforms—BBC History website
Gorbachev's two main reform ideas are perestroika (restructuring) and glasnost (openness).
Gorbachev's crucial nuclear summits—Summits, Geneva, 1985
Gorbachev and President Reagan sign key nuclear arms treaties that thaw Cold War tensions.
Gorbachev and the 'Iron Lady'—Breakfast with Frost, 12/09/1993
Gorbachev struck up a frank and fierce relationship with British PM, Margaret Thatcher.
The fall of communism in Eastern Europe—Our World, Gorbachev - Part 2, The Great Dissident
Encouraged by Gorbachev’s reforms, Warsaw Pact nations challenge Communist authority.
Gorbachev wins the Nobel Peace Prize—BBC History website
In 1990 Gorbachev was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in ending the Cold War.
Gorbachev is briefly deposed in the August Coup of 1991—BBC History website
Imprisoned in Crimea, Gorbachev is saved by his former protege, Boris Yeltsin.
Gorbachev on his legacy and reputation—Breakfast with Frost, 12/09/1993
Gorbachev reflects on his reputation outside Russiaand his political legacy.
Gorbachev's thoughts on communism—Breakfast with Frost, 12/09/1993
Gorbachev details the attractions and failings of Soviet communism.
Gorbachev in retirement—BBC History website
Dismayed by the state of Russia, Gorbachev becomes a fierce critic of Vladimir Putin.
