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From Our Own Correspondent: Russia - and the old USSR

Russia - and the old USSR

BBC World Service - From Our Own Correspondent, Russia - and the old USSR

Alan Johnston with a special essay by Bridget Kendall on the shaping of Mikhail Gorbachev

Alan Johnston introduces insight and analysis from BBC correspondents worldwide. Today, a special essay by Bridget Kendall on where and how Mikhail Gorbachev was inspired to reform the Soviet system.

Alan Johnston introduces a special essay by Bridget Kendall on the intellectual and political influences which shaped Mikhail Gorbachev. 

Just how was it that a such an exemplary and loyal son of the USSR ended up as a reformer who would destroy the Soviet system altogether? 

Who were the people, and what were the events, convincing him of the need for change? 

It's nearly 20 years now since an attempted coup against Gorbachev tried vainly to stop his reforms in their tracks. 

Those who rebelled against him then weren't alone, for decades since the end of World War II, it was assumed that the Cold War might go on almost indefinitely. 

Yet today, the old state model is gone for good. 

With exclusive access to Gorbachev himself, Bridget Kendall was able to chart his political journey.

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