As leader of the Soviet Union in the 1980s, Mikhail Gorbachev introduced reforms to improve the Soviet economy and increase the standard of living of the Soviet people. What caused many of the economic problems that the Soviet Union faced at that time?

Question

As leader of the Soviet Union in the 1980s, Mikhail Gorbachev introduced reforms to improve the Soviet economy and increase the standard of living of the Soviet people. What caused many of the economic problems that the Soviet Union faced at that time?

A.
The Soviet Union did not regulate its economy.

B.
The Soviet Union discouraged industrialization.

C.
The Soviet Union lacked access to natural resources.

D.
The Soviet Union spent too much money on its military.

Answer 1

D. The Soviet Union spent too much money on its military.

During the 1980s, a large portion of the Soviet Union's budget was allocated towards maintaining a powerful military and engaging in the arms race with the United States. This led to a neglect of investment in other sectors of the economy, resulting in inefficiencies, shortages, and overall economic stagnation. The overspending on the military also contributed to a lack of resources being allocated towards improving the standard of living for the Soviet people.