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The End of the Cold War
Quick questions on The collapse of the Soviet Union explained: O-Level History
5short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is a system in deep trouble?Show answer
The Soviet Union collapsed because it was, by the late 1980s, a system in deep trouble. Its economy was failing: inefficient, stagnant, and unable to provide ordinary people with the goods and standard of living enjoyed in the West. The strain of decades of the arms race had drained its resources. Politically, the system was rigid, corrupt and unpopular.
What is the rise of nationalism?Show answer
A crucial factor was nationalism. The Soviet Union was not a single nation but a union of many different peoples and republics, held together by central Communist control. As that control weakened under Gorbachev, many of these nations began to demand greater freedom and even full independence. The collapse of communism in Eastern Europe in 1989 gave them a powerful example and encouragement.
What is q1?Show answer
In which year was the Soviet Union dissolved? [3 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
Explain why rising nationalism helped cause the collapse of the Soviet Union. [5 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
"The Soviet Union collapsed mainly because of its failing economy." How far do you agree? [8 marks]
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