History is the systematic study of past events, particularly in human affairs. It encompasses the analysis, interpretation, and presentation of events that have occurred over time, focusing on their causes, effects, and significance. History seeks to understand how societies have evolved, how cultures have interacted, and how individuals have shaped the world through their actions and decisions. It often relies on various sources such as written documents, oral traditions, artifacts, and other evidence to construct narratives about the past. Historians interpret these sources to provide insights into the human experience, helping to contextualize current events and inform future developments. Ultimately, history offers a framework for understanding the complexities of humanity and the lessons learned from past successes and failures.
The late 20th century saw the unexpected collapse of the Soviet Union, significantly reshaping global geopolitics. Mikhail Gorbachev, through policies like glasnost and perestroika, intended to reform, not dissolve, the…