The Role Of Gorbachev

Question 1

First KU and analysis point?

Answer 1

KU
• Gorbachev was intent on reforming communism in the USSR leading to him to introduce the policies of Perestroika and Glasnost in 1985.

Analysis
•Perestroika was the reform of economic reconstruction. Glasnost was the Soviet reform of openness, which had perviously been banned by the old government.

Question 2

2nd KU and analysis point?

Answer 2

KU
• Gorbachev brought a new approach to foreign policy, improving relations with the west was his top priority. He famously met with Margret Thatcher (the prime minister of the UK at the time) who said after the meeting “we can do business”.

Analysis
• President Reagan admired Thatcher so the fact she was willing to work with Gorbachev meant that Reagan was more likely to hold talks and negotiate with him.

Question 3

Analysis plus

Answer 3

However it could be argued that Gorbachev’s role was limited as negotiations between the two superpowers were mainly carried out by foreign ministers, the Soviet Unions foreign minister was Eduard Shevardnadze.

Question 4

Evaluation

Answer 4

In evaluating the issue how important was Gorbachev in swinging the Cold War, the evidence shows Gorbachev was very important because without his willingness to reform communism the ussr would have remained in having poor relations with the USA