The Rest Is History: Young Putin, the KGB and the Soviet Union
The Rest Is Politics
00:00
Leadership and Reform in the USSR
This chapter examines the leadership transition in the Soviet Union post-Brezhnev, highlighting Yuri Andropov's influence and his hopes for Mikhail Gorbachev's succession. It explores Gorbachev's ambitions and the challenges he faced while implementing reforms, such as perestroika and glasnost, amidst economic struggles and rising nationalism. Additionally, it touches on Vladimir Putin's early experiences in the KGB during this transformative period, reflecting his evolving understanding of Russian power.
Play episode from 19:24
Transcript
