Legacy Encore: Gorbachev | Shutting Down the Cold War | 2
Jan 6, 2026
Gorbachev steps onto the world stage determined to avert nuclear war, forging an unexpected bond with Reagan. The podcast dives into the unforgettable 1980s nuclear anxiety and the fallout from Reagan's 'evil empire' speech. Key moments like the Geneva Summit showcase how personal relationships can reshape diplomacy. Despite near-agreements in Reykjavik, challenges remained, yet they ignited hope for nuclear reductions and environmental diplomacy. The episode explores the complexities of Cold War dynamics through a captivating blend of history and personal stories.
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Thatcher's 'We Can Do Business' Moment
- Margaret Thatcher met Mikhail Gorbachev in 1984 and felt a surprising cultural and intellectual connection with him.
- Her remark "I like Mr Gorbachev. We can do business together" helped introduce him to Western publics and signalled opening dialogue.
Nuclear Fear Drove Diplomatic Urgency
- The 1980s fear of nuclear war was pervasive and culturally embedded, shaping politics and everyday life.
- Gorbachev prioritised avoiding nuclear confrontation because parity made mutual destruction a real and senseless risk.
The Fireside Thaw In Geneva
- At the 1985 Geneva summit Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev moved to an informal fireside setting which thawed tensions.
- Their private exchange revealed shared humanity and set the stage for further summits despite policy disagreements.
