Author explores the debate around the demise of the USSR, focusing on the role of entrenched interests. Some argue powerful bureaucratic forces made reform impossible, while others claim the reform process was botched. Assessing Gorbachev’s role, some say he was weak, while others argue he wielded significant power. The essay delves into the General Secretary’s strength through bold personnel reshuffling and extensive bureaucracy restructuring, suggesting Gorbachev’s power was vast. Comparing perceptions of Gorbachev’s strength to historical data, the narrative of a weak leader faces challenges. Overall, the essay challenges assumptions about Gorbachev’s power and highlights the complexities of his rule.
https://www.cogitations.co/p/from-reform-to-ruin-in-the-ussr