The term “Herzog” is of German origin, meaning “duke.” It is a noble title historically used in various European countries, particularly within the Holy Roman Empire, to denote a ruler or high-ranking nobleman governing a region or territory known as a duchy. The title signified authority and control over land and people, often hereditary, passed down through noble families. In contemporary usage, “Herzog” can also refer to specific individuals, notably filmmaker Werner Herzog, known for his unique contributions to cinema. Overall, the term encapsulates themes of nobility, governance, and heritage.
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…