Final answer:
The fall of the Soviet Union was primarily due to economic issues, including the inefficiencies of the command economy and military expenditures. Political and social factors, such as nationalism and independence movements, also contributed to its collapse.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fall of the Soviet Union was primarily due to economic issues. The communist command economy, which had been in place for many years, was unable to effectively allocate resources and keep up with the demands of the global market. This resulted in economic stagnation, widespread shortages, and a decline in living standards for the Soviet people.
The Soviet Union also faced significant military challenges, including costly engagements in Afghanistan and an arms race with the United States. These military expenditures placed a further strain on the already struggling economy.
Additionally, political and social factors played a role in the collapse of the Soviet Union. Gorbachev's Perestroika and Glasnost policies, which aimed to reform the Soviet system, inadvertently unleashed forces of nationalism and independence movements within the various Soviet republics.
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