As an expert in the field of political history, I can provide an insightful analysis of Mikhail Gorbachev's beliefs and the impact of his policies on the world stage. Mikhail Gorbachev is a pivotal figure in the late 20th-century history, particularly known for his role in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. His tenure as the General Secretary of the Soviet Union, which began in 1985, was marked by a series of transformative policies and initiatives that were both innovative and controversial within the context of the Soviet political system. Step 1: English Answer Mikhail Gorbachev's beliefs were rooted in a desire to modernize and reform the Soviet Union, which he saw as necessary to address the country's economic stagnation and political rigidity. He believed in a more open and democratic form of socialism, which was a significant departure from the more authoritarian and centralized control that characterized the Soviet system under previous leaders. One of Gorbachev's most notable initiatives was glasnost, which translates to "openness" or "transparency." This policy was aimed at fostering greater freedom of speech, the press, and information within the Soviet Union. Gorbachev believed that by allowing for more open discussion and criticism, the Soviet Union could address its problems more effectively and create a more accountable government. Another key aspect of Gorbachev's beliefs was perestroika, which means "restructuring" or "reformation." This economic policy sought to decentralize the Soviet economy and introduce elements of market capitalism. Gorbachev recognized that the centralized planned economy was inefficient and unresponsive to the needs of the people. Through perestroika, he aimed to make the Soviet economy more competitive and dynamic by allowing for private ownership and enterprise. Gorbachev was also a proponent of new thinking in foreign policy. This approach emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the interdependence of nations. He sought to reduce the tensions of the Cold War through dialogue and diplomacy, leading to significant disarmament agreements with the United States, such as the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty in 1987. However, Gorbachev's reforms faced significant opposition within the Soviet Union. Many hardliners within the Communist Party and the military saw his policies as a threat to the Soviet system and their own power. This resistance, coupled with the rapid pace of change and the economic hardships that accompanied the transition, contributed to the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. Despite the dramatic downfall of communism in Europe, Gorbachev's legacy is one of a visionary leader who attempted to steer his country towards a more open, democratic, and economically viable future. His policies and beliefs have had a lasting impact on the world, marking a turning point in the history of the Cold War and the global political landscape. Step 2: Divider read more >>

Mikhail Gorbachev. Mikhail Gorbachev was the last General Secretary of the Soviet Union. Appointed in 1985, Gorbachev's domestic reforms and nuclear disarmament deals helped end the Cold War but ultimately led to the dramatic downfall of communism in Europe.read more >>