In the 1980s, Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev implemented a series of reforms aimed at modernizing the Soviet Union and improving its economy. However, these reforms also led to tensions within the Soviet Union and throughout the Soviet Bloc of Eastern Europe.
Gorbachev's policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring) allowed for greater freedom of speech and press, but also led to increased criticism of the Soviet government and calls for greater democracy. This, in turn, led to protests and demonstrations in cities throughout the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.
In addition, Gorbachev's reforms also led to economic hardships, as the government's attempts to move towards a market-based economy resulted in job losses and inflation. This led to further unrest and dissatisfaction among the population.
The tensions within the Soviet Union eventually led to its collapse in 1991, as the various republics sought greater autonomy and independence. The fall of the Soviet Union also had a significant impact on the countries of Eastern Europe, many of which began to move towards democratic reforms and closer ties with the West.