Mikhail Gorbachev died in Moscow, aged 91. Russia editor Arkady Ostrovsky reflects on the historic leader's legacy. He was one of a very few Russian leaders who managed to leave power alive and remain admired by many of his own compatriots. But for people who believe in freedom he is a hero to those who want Russia to be an empire - they base their power on hatred of others.
From Pelé, the “king of football”, to Britain’s longest-reigning queen, our editors and correspondents reflected on the accomplishments of many notable figures who died this year. But our obituaries editor shone a light also on the lives and legacies of lesser-known figures.
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