Perestroika

Definition

Perestroika, which means 'restructuring' in Russian, was a political movement initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s aimed at reforming the Soviet Union's economic and political system. It sought to introduce elements of market economics and decentralization to combat stagnation and inefficiency within the Soviet economy, ultimately allowing for more openness and political liberalization. This movement had profound implications for nationalism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, as it inadvertently sparked demands for greater autonomy and independence among various national groups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Perestroika was officially launched in 1985 when Gorbachev became the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union.
2. The reforms included allowing private ownership of businesses and encouraging foreign investments to stimulate the economy.
3. As perestroika progressed, it led to unintended consequences, including increased demands for independence from various Soviet republics.
4. The policies under perestroika were met with resistance from hardline communist factions within the Soviet government, leading to significant political turmoil.
5. Ultimately, perestroika contributed to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 as nationalistic sentiments surged among different ethnic groups seeking self-determination.

Review Questions

• How did perestroika aim to change the economic structure of the Soviet Union, and what were its intended goals?
  • Perestroika aimed to change the economic structure of the Soviet Union by introducing market-oriented reforms such as decentralizing control over industries and allowing for private ownership. The intended goals were to revive a stagnating economy by increasing efficiency, fostering innovation, and attracting foreign investment. However, these reforms also led to significant political changes and an increase in public demand for greater freedoms.
• Discuss the relationship between perestroika and the rise of nationalist movements within the Soviet Union during the late 1980s.
  • Perestroika created an environment that allowed for greater expression of dissent and demands for autonomy among various national groups within the Soviet Union. As Gorbachev's reforms aimed to decentralize power and promote openness, many republics began advocating for their rights and independence. This led to heightened nationalist sentiments that eventually contributed to the fragmentation of the Soviet Union.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of perestroika on Eastern Europe and its impact on post-Soviet states.
  • The long-term effects of perestroika extended beyond the borders of the Soviet Union, significantly influencing Eastern Europe. The reforms led to a wave of democratization across former Soviet satellites, as nations like Poland and Hungary adopted similar policies. In post-Soviet states, perestroika's legacy can be seen in ongoing struggles for political freedom, economic stability, and national identity as these countries sought to establish their own paths after decades of Soviet control.

Related terms

glasnost:

Glasnost, meaning 'openness,' was a policy introduced alongside perestroika that encouraged transparency in government institutions and greater freedom of expression for citizens.

Gorbachev: Mikhail Gorbachev was the last leader of the Soviet Union who implemented perestroika and glasnost in an attempt to revitalize the Soviet state.

nationalism:

Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to movements for independence or greater autonomy.