Mikhail Gorbachev, who became General Secretary of the Communist Party in 1985, recognized the need for reform to revitalize the Soviet economy and society. He introduced Glasnost, which allowed for greater freedom of speech, press, and assembly. This new policy aimed to increase transparency and accountability in government, as well as stimulate public debate and criticism.
The introduction of Glasnost brought about a sudden and dramatic change. Overnight, it seemed, Soviet media began to discuss topics that had previously been taboo, including corruption, economic stagnation, and even the dark chapters of Soviet history such as Stalin's purges. For Russian teens, this was a revelatory experience. Many had grown up believing in the infallibility of the Soviet system and the benevolence of its leaders. The new openness forced them to question these beliefs and consider alternative viewpoints. Russian.Teens.3.Glasnost.Teens