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The last Soviet leader - 7th September 2022

Mikhail Gorbachev, who was President of the Soviet Union, has died. The country's last leader died at the age of 91. He ruled the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991 and helped to stop its Cold War with the USA.

Gorbachev made a historic agreement with US president Ronald Reagan. Both countries reduced their supply of nuclear weapons. In 1990, Gorbachev was given the Nobel Peace Prize.

Western leaders liked Gorbachev's peaceful ideas. But many Russians were angry with him after he lost control of Eastern Europe.

Gorbachev was made head of the Communist Party in 1985. The 54 year old brought in new solutions which were a huge shift from the past. He wanted a restructured and more open government.

But the Soviet Union's problems got worse. As the empire fell apart, Gorbachev resigned.

Mikhail Gorbachev: "I resign with a feeling of anxiety, but also with hope and faith in you, in your wisdom, in your strength of spirit."

The former leader became a public speaker. He helped educational projects and supported human rights. His money helped set up an independent newspaper in Russia.

Gorbachev encouraged Russia to improve its relationship with the USA. But he made no comment on Russia's attack on Ukraine.