GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE History GlossaryGorbachev

Gorbachev - GCSE History Definition

Reviewed by: Zoe Wade

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Gorbachev refers to Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, serving as its General Secretary from 1985 until its dissolution in 1991. He is a significant figure in GCSE History due to his policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring), which aimed to reform the Soviet political and economic systems. Gorbachev's leadership marked a pivotal period in the Cold War, contributing to the end of Soviet control in Eastern Europe and ultimately leading to the collapse of the Soviet Union. His efforts to improve relations with the West, along with his role in ending the Soviet Union's involvement in Afghanistan, made him a central figure in late 20th-century world history.

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Zoe Wade

Reviewer: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History Content Creator

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

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