#50. What were the factors that played a significant role in the collapse of Russian control over Eastern Europe?

I'm still working on it. Any help would be appreciated

Corruption and inefficiency

Also look at glasnost.

There were a few factors that played a significant role in the collapse of Russian control over Eastern Europe. Under the Soviet System, a few of the leaders had established a Communist dictatorship. The Soviet Union had a command economy which is one with a central authority deciding on what goods will be produced. Most Russians believed that communism would improve their lives, since most of them had a bad history of being poor peasant farmers. Instead, they found that the Communists had become their new masters. People remained poor, and moreover, had no freedom to make personal decisions or express their opinions. The state controlled their lives and economy. The millions of people who resisted or objected them were either sent to prisons or forced-labor camps. Many more were executed. Terror was the key part of life under communism.

...being continued

Industry and agriculture was also gone corrupt. Under Soviet rule, farmland was recognized into state farms and collective farms. Most of the farmers were forced to work on them. On state farms, workers received wages as they would in factories, while on collective farms, workers shared any surpluses that remained after products were sold and expenses were paid. Almost all the time, Soviet agricultural production and distribution remained low because of the few reasons for the farmers to work quicker.

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Is that it?

Go back and reread the question. Have you answered it?

Most of what you've written describes life under communism for the 70 or so years before the Russian collapse.

no, i'm about to write more

To understand the factors that played a significant role in the collapse of Russian control over Eastern Europe, it is important to consider historical, political, and social factors. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Economic stagnation: The Soviet Union experienced economic stagnation due to inefficiency, corruption, and a centralized planned economy. This led to a decline in living standards, lack of consumer goods, and a growing dissatisfaction among the population.

To research this further:
- Look into the economic policies of the Soviet Union, such as the Five-Year Plans and collectivization of agriculture.
- Study the impact of economic stagnation on the Eastern European countries and how it led to discontent.

2. Nationalism and ethnic tensions: Eastern Europe is composed of diverse ethnic and national groups, each with its own identity and aspirations. The Soviet Union's control suppressed nationalist sentiments and prevented self-determination. As the grip loosened, these suppressed nationalistic sentiments resurfaced, leading to demands for independence and autonomy.

To research this further:
- Study the nationalist movements in various Eastern European countries during the Soviet control.
- Look into the role of key figures and events that fueled nationalism and ethnic tensions, such as the Solidarity movement in Poland or the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia.

3. Political reforms and external pressure: The political climate in Eastern Europe started to shift as Mikhail Gorbachev implemented reforms in the Soviet Union, such as Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (restructuring). These reforms, coupled with external pressure from Western countries advocating for human rights and democracy, inspired pro-democracy movements throughout Eastern Europe.

To research this further:
- Look into the policies and reforms implemented by Gorbachev during his time as the leader of the Soviet Union.
- Study the role of Western countries, particularly the United States, in supporting democratic movements in Eastern Europe.

4. Fall of the Berlin Wall: The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 symbolized the end of the Cold War and had a profound impact on Eastern Europe. It opened up communication and travel, allowing citizens to witness the stark differences in living standards and political freedom between Eastern and Western Europe. This further fueled the desire for political change and led to the rapid crumbling of Soviet control.

To research this further:
- Study the events leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall and its aftermath.
- Examine the impact of the fall of the Berlin Wall on the Eastern European countries.

To gain more insight into the collapse of Russian control over Eastern Europe, it is recommended to consult reputable sources such as history books, academic journals, and credible online resources. Additionally, analyzing primary sources like speeches, government policies, and personal accounts can provide valuable perspectives on the topic.