This section continues to examine the consolidation of the Soviet state from 1953 and the methods applied to ensure its survival, growth and expansion inside and outside the borders of the Soviet Union. It explores the rise and nature of the rule of Khrushchev, Brezhnev and their policies.

 

East–West relations post-1945 in relation to Soviet aims and leadership will also be considered.

 

Finally, the decline and collapse of the Soviet Union will be considered, as well as political and economic developments in post-Soviet Russia

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• Khrushchev and Brezhnev: domestic policies and foreign relations

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• Transformation of the Soviet Union (1985–1991): Gorbachev (aims, policies and extent of success); political developments and change

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• Collapse of the Soviet Union; post-Soviet Russia to 2000; role and policies of Yeltsin; political and economic developments to 2000