Mikhail Gorbachev
The eighth and last leader of the Soviet Union (1988 - 1991)
Real World Example
Mikhail Gorbachev was the last leader of the Soviet Union, serving from 1988 to 1991. He introduced major reforms like "glasnost" (openness) and "perestroika" (restructuring) to make the Soviet Union more open and efficient. These changes helped end the Cold War by reducing tensions between the Soviet Union and Western countries, including the United States. Gorbachev's actions matter because they led to the peaceful breakup of the Soviet Union and the end of decades-long hostilities. Today, his legacy inspires people who value transparency and reform, such as citizens in countries pushing for more democratic governance and freedom of speech, much like people advocating for social change through platforms like social media.