Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev (born in 1931) Soviet president, in power 1985-1991.
Short Biography:
He was a member of the Politburo from 1980. As general secretary of the Communist Party (CPSU) 1985-1991, and president of the Supreme Soviet 1988-1991, he introduced liberal reforms at home (perestroika and glasnost), proposed the introduction of multiparty democracy, and attempted to halt die arms race abroad.
He became head of state 1989. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 1990 but his international reputation suffered in the light of harsh state repression of nationalist demonstrations in the Baltic states.
Following an abortive coup attempt by hardliners in August, 1991, international acceptance of independence for the Baltic states, and accelerated moves towards independence in other republics, Gorbachev's power base as Soviet president was greatly weakened and in December, 1991 he resigned.
Why is Mikhail Gorbachev famous?
Mikhail Gorbachev served as General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1985 until 1991.
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